Where to Find and Purchase an Arizona Cypress Tree

The Arizona cypress (Cupressus arizonica) is an attractive evergreen conifer native to the arid Southwest. With its striking powder blue foliage and ability to thrive in hot, dry climates, this tree makes a great addition to both native and low-water landscapes. If you’re looking to add some desert flair to your yard, you may be wondering: where can I buy an Arizona cypress tree? Fortunately, with a bit of searching, these desert natives can be purchased through several sources.

Check Local Nurseries

Your first stop when Arizona cypress shopping should be local nurseries and garden centers, especially those focused on native or drought-tolerant plants. Call ahead to inventory availability before visiting. The tree’s popularity means smaller nurseries may sell out fast during peak seasons.

If you live outside the tree’s natural growing zones (USDA zones 7-9), local availability is hit or miss. In warmer climates, look for heat-loving selections like the ‘Blue Ice’ or ‘Silver Smoke’ cultivars. In cooler zones, find a protected location and plan to overwinter small plants. With extra care, an Arizona cypress can thrive well outside its native range.

When buying locally inspect plants carefully for signs of health and vigor. Avoid specimens with dead branches discolored foliage, or rootbound containers. Select plants with full canopies and visible new growth.

Check National Online Sellers

Can’t find an Arizona cypress nearby? Several online nurseries ship these trees nationwide Ordering online expands your options, especially for hard-to-find mature sizes or rare cultivars

Reputable national sellers offering Arizona cypress trees include:

• Nature Hills Nursery – Offers sizes from 1 gallon to 7 gallon plus some cultivars. Provides detailed planting and care instructions.

• Monrovia – Sells the popular ‘Carolina Sapphire’ and ‘Blue Ice’ cultivars in various sizes. Trees shipped at proper planting times.

• Willoway Nurseries – Good selection including ‘Glauca Blue’ and ‘Silver Smoke’. Clearly lists plant sizes and guarantees.

• Mountain States Wholesale Nursery – Sells bare root Arizona cypress up to 8 feet tall for low shipping costs.

Check company policies on shipping times, guarantees, and available sizes to choose the best fit for your needs. Order early as stock is limited.

Ask a Local Tree Grower

If you need a large or rare specimen, consider sourcing an Arizona cypress from a specialty grower. These small farms focus on growing native and ornamental trees to order. Reach out to growers through their websites or social media pages.

Be sure to check their inventory and ordering timelines. While more expensive than retail, you gain access to exact tree sizes and varieties. It’s a great option for an signature tree or specific landscaping need.

Check for Availability at Botanical Gardens

For a truly unique Arizona cypress, consider sourcing from a botanical garden’s rare plant sales. Public gardens sometimes sell unusual specimens from their living collections. This is an opportunity to acquire hard-to-find mature sizes, cultivars, or native populations.

For example, the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum offers seed grown Arizona cypress native to the Chiricahua and Santa Catalina Mountains. Likewise, the San Diego Zoo’s rare plant sales may include specimens suitable for dry, coastal climates.

Be prepared to act quickly since stock is very limited. Prices are often higher but these special plants can be worth it!

Gather Seeds To Grow Your Own

For the most rugged stock, consider growing an Arizona cypress from wild-collected seeds. Seeds gathered from trees in your region will produce plants genetically adapted to local conditions. Plus, it’s a fun project for the patient gardener.

Collect fresh cones in fall before seeds drop. Further dry and store them over winter. In spring, soak cones to release seeds and follow a detailed germination guide. It may take several months to over a year before plants are ready to transplant.

Growing Arizona cypress from seed takes time but allows you to personally propagate this remarkable native tree.

Choose the Right Size Tree for You

Arizona cypress trees are available in a wide range of sizes, from small pots to towering trees. Choose wisely based on your budget, goals, and site conditions:

• Seedlings or 1-2 gallon pots: Best for growing on or planting en masse as a hedge. Require more time and care to establish.

• 5-15 gallon pots: Offer instant impact at an affordable price. Mature enough for quick growth with adequate water and care.

• 15-25 gallon pots: For making an immediate statement. Expensive but requires minimal aftercare.

• Boxed or balled-and-burlapped trees: Large caliper trees that provide immediate shade and privacy. Need professional planting.

• Multi-trunk trees: Offer unique textures. Good for tighter spaces or as accent plants. More expensive.

Select the size that best fits your landscape vision, constraints, and willingness to nurture young plants. With options from small starts to instant trees, everyone can add Arizona cypress beauty to their garden!

Bring the Desert to Your Landscape

With its distinctive desert appeal and adaptability, the Arizona cypress is a prime choice for gardens everywhere. By sourcing from specialty nurseries, online sellers, and native plant sales, you can acquire this resilient native tree regardless of geography or climate. Do some research, pick the perfect specimen for your needs, and soon you’ll be enjoying the beauty of the Southwest in your own backyard.