PlantaeHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN LCInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Least Concern — widespread and abundant; not at immediate risk of extinction.In ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting
Cupressus lusitanica
Mexican Cypress
Mill., 1768
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
An imposing evergreen conifer reaching up to 40 meters tall, featuring a conical-to-pyramidal crown with pendulous branchlet sprays. It is characterized by small, scale-like, aromatic grey-green leaves, a straight trunk with reddish-brown fissured bark, and globose woody cones.
Added by
Anonymous Curator
Reviewed by
Under Review
Last modified by
Julia Trouin
TaxonomyBiological classification ranks placing this species within the tree of life, from Kingdom down to Genus.
PhylumRank below Kingdom. Groups organisms sharing a fundamental body plan (e.g., Chordata = vertebrates and some invertebrates).Tracheophyta
ClassRank below Phylum. Subdivides by structural traits (e.g., Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Insecta).Pinopsida
OrderRank below Class. Groups related families sharing common ancestry (e.g., Carnivora, Primates).Pinales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Cupressaceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Cupressus
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.Mill., 1768
Record Completeness
66%Coming soon
Ecology & StatusHow this species lives: habitat preferences, diet, behavior, population status, and role in its ecosystem.
OriginWhether the species is native (evolved here), endemic (found only here), or introduced by human activity.
Introduced
Population TrendDirection of change in population size over time: increasing, stable, decreasing, or unknown.
Stable
Trophic RolePosition in the food chain: producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, or parasite.
Primary Producer
Growth HabitPhysical form and structure of the plant: tree, shrub, herb, vine, epiphyte, aquatic, etc.
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Leaf TypeLeaf characteristics: deciduous (seasonal shed), evergreen, simple, compound, needle-like, etc.
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Flowering SeasonTime of year when this species typically reproduces or flowers.
Year Round
Recent SightingsWhether this species has been observed in the wild in Costa Rica within recent years.
Yes
Habitat SummaryOverview of the specific ecosystems and environments where this species is found in Costa Rica. Multi-lang
Native to montane pine-oak forests of Mexico and Central America, thriving on steep, moist rocky slopes between 1,200 and 3,000 meters elevation. Extensively naturalized globally in high-altitude timber plantations and agrarian windbreak corridors.Light & Water NeedsSunlight intensity and moisture levels this plant needs to grow and reproduce successfully. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!BehaviourDaily activity patterns, movement, territory use, foraging style, and seasonal behavioral changes. Multi-lang
Acts as an effective upper-elevation microclimate moderator. Its dense evergreen canopy blocks harsh solar radiation, collects mountain fog moisture, and serves as an important nesting shelter for montane avifauna.Toxicity / UsesToxic compounds present and their documented effects on humans or other organisms. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!Physical Measures
Length (cm)
2000.0 - 4000.0 cm
Reproductive StructuresFlowers, fruits, and seeds — the reproductive organs and their seasonal appearance.
Flower Photos (Max 2)
No imageFruit Photos (Max 2)
No imageEvolutionary AdaptationsInherited traits and behaviors that improve the species' survival and reproduction in its specific environment. Multi-lang
Possesses scale-like leaves with low surface-area-to-volume ratios and specialized cuticular waxes that minimize water transpirational loss during persistent mountain winds and cold alpine dry spells.
Exhibits strong windbreak architecture with deep-penetrating, heavy anchoring root designs and highly flexible, resilient wood structure that safely withstands turbulent, low-pressure montane windstorms.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Vulnerability to the severe fungal canker pathogen Seiridium cardinale, which destroys vascular phloem tissue and causes high branch mortality and industrial damage within monoculture monopolies.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
Despite its scientific name 'lusitanica' implying Portuguese origin, the tree is completely native to the Americas; it was named after historical specimens cultivated at Buçaco, Portugal in the 17th century.