Overview

A durable Florida-native evergreen conifer with dense blue-green foliage, textured bark, and berry-like cones that bring year-round structure to Tampa landscapes.

Mature Size and Habit

It develops a narrow pyramidal form when young, then broadens with age. Mature trees often reach 30 to 50 feet tall and 10 to 20 feet wide.

Best Landscape Uses

Use it as a privacy screen, specimen, windbreak, wildlife planting, or evergreen backdrop. Allow room for the trunk and crown to mature without crowding structures.

Sunlight

Plant in full sun for the densest habit. Light afternoon shade is tolerated, though heavy shade produces thinner growth.

Soil, Drainage, and Irrigation

Well-drained sandy or loamy soil is ideal. Water deeply during establishment, then reduce irrigation because established trees tolerate dry periods.

Best Planting Season for Tampa and Central Florida

Plant from fall through early spring in Central Florida so roots establish before intense summer heat. Container-grown trees also establish in warm weather with dependable irrigation.

Pruning and Maintenance

Prune lightly to remove damaged or crossing branches and preserve a strong central leader. Avoid shearing mature trees into tight shapes.

Wildlife Value

The fleshy cones feed birds, while dense evergreen branches provide nesting and winter shelter. It adds strong habitat value to native landscape designs.

Cold and Heat Sensitivity

Heat and humidity are well tolerated once established. Young growth handles normal Tampa cold snaps, though severe wind exposure can dry foliage.

Safety, Roots, and Placement Warnings

The roots are generally not considered aggressively destructive, but large trees need appropriate setback from foundations, pavement, utilities, and overhead lines.

Invasive Concerns

This Florida native is not considered invasive. Volunteer seedlings can appear where birds distribute seed, and unwanted seedlings are easy to remove.

Helpful Resources

For region-specific care guidance, review the UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions website and follow local watering rules.