Cupressaceae

Cupressaceae is a family of coniferous trees and shrubs commonly known as the cypress family. It comprises about 30 genera and hundreds of species, with a wide distribution in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere and several lineages in the Southern Hemisphere. The family includes well-known genera such as Juniperus (junipers), Cupressus (true cypresses), Chamaecyparis (false cypresses), Libocedrus, Calocedrus, Cryptomeria, and Thuja, as well as the large redwood and sequoia lineages Taxodium, Sequoia, Sequoiadendron, and Metasequoia.

Description: Cupressaceae members are evergreen conifers, often with scale-like leaves on older shoots and needle-like leaves on juveniles. Leaves are typically arranged in flattened sprays or spirals and may be decussate. Female cones are woody and persistent, varying in shape from rounded to ovoid, with scales that shed to release seeds; male cones are small and pollen-producing. Many species are dioecious, though some are monoecious. The wood is frequently durable and resinous.

Distribution and ecology: Members occur in a range of habitats from coastal to high mountains, often favoring well-drained soils. They can be long-lived, with giants such as Sequoia sempervirens and Sequoiadendron giganteum among the oldest living trees. Some lineages are adapted to drought or periodic fire.

Uses: The family is economically important for timber and timber products, landscape ornamentals, and hedges. Some species yield essential oils used in perfumery and traditional medicine. Many Cupressaceae are cultivated worldwide in parks and gardens.

Classification note: Modern classifications divide Cupressaceae into several subfamilies, including Cupressoideae, Sequoioideae, and Callitroideae, reflecting diverse evolutionary lineages.