Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum)

Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum) is a deciduous conifer native to the southeastern United States, commonly found in wetlands, swamps, and riverbanks. It has a tall, straight trunk with reddish-brown, fibrous bark and features soft, feathery, needle-like leaves that turn rust-colored in autumn before falling. The tree is known for its distinctive, cone-shaped seed pods and “knees”—aerial root projections that protrude from the water, possibly providing stability or oxygen. Bald Cypress plays a vital role in wetland ecosystems, helping with water filtration and providing habitat for various wildlife species.