This towering tree, commonly known as the Montezuma cypress, is actually the national tree of Mexico. One specimen, the Árbol del Tule in Santa María del Tule, Oaxaca, is the stoutest tree in the world at 47.5 feet in diameter. With a maximum height of well over 100 feet, this tree is impressive to say the least. It is usually found in riparian areas, but it is actually fairly drought tolerant. This tree relies on its beautiful foliage to catch the eye, with an airy, delicate quality. Formerly in the family Taxodiaceae, it has actually been re-categorized into the larger Cupressaceae family. There are two of these trees on campus; be sure to find them on our website and then here on campus!
