Primeval pond cypress savannas in Atlantic Coastal Plain depression wetlands

Abstract

Pond cypress is one of the 3 known species of Taxodium (Cupressaceae) worldwide. It is found primarily in non-alluvial wetland depressions in the Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plains of the southeastern US. In some clay-based depressions where hydroperiod and fire allow, pond cypress savannas are present. Here, dwarfed, old-growth pond cypress trees form an open canopy over a diverse and rare companion flora. Pond cypress may live to an age of 500 y or more. Disturbances, such as ditching, draining, logging, and the elimination of fire, are enemies of healthy pond cypress savannas.