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Description
Cupressus Macrocarpa Wilma, also known as Wilma Goldcrest or Lemon Cypress, is a dwarf cultivar of the Monterey Cypress. This evergreen shrub has a distinctive columnar shape, with vibrant golden-yellow foliage that exudes a lemon scent. It is a popular choice for landscaping and gardening, particularly in Mediterranean or coastal regions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Cupressaceae |
| Genus | Cupressus |
Appearance
Cupressus Macrocarpa Wilma is a slow-growing shrub that can reach up to 10 feet tall, but typically stays around 6 feet. It has a narrow, columnar shape with dense foliage that creates a striking visual impact. The needles are scale-like, arranged in flattened sprays, and have a bright golden-yellow color that intensifies in full sun. The Wilma cultivar is particularly known for its lemon scent, which is released when the foliage is brushed or crushed.
Care Guide
Cupressus Macrocarpa Wilma is relatively easy to care for, but it does require specific conditions to thrive. Here are some tips on how to care for this shrub:- Water: Wilma Goldcrest prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water regularly, especially during the hot summer months, and avoid letting the soil dry out completely.- Fertilization: Fertilize once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: This shrub prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. If you’re planting in a container, use a high-quality potting mix.- Sunlight: Wilma Goldcrest needs full sun to maintain its vibrant color. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the foliage to turn green.- Hardiness Zones: This shrub is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cupressus Macrocarpa Wilma is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to some issues. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing foliage and webbing on the plant.- Canker disease: This fungal disease can cause dieback and discoloration of the foliage.- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly draining soil can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
Habitat
Cupressus Macrocarpa Wilma is native to California’s Monterey Bay, where it grows in coastal areas with well-draining soil and full sun. It is also commonly used in landscaping and gardening in Mediterranean or coastal regions.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Cupressus Macrocarpa Wilma?
A: Water regularly, especially during the hot summer months, and avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
Q: Can Cupressus Macrocarpa Wilma tolerate shade?
A: Wilma Goldcrest needs full sun to maintain its vibrant color. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the foliage to turn green.
Q: How tall does Cupressus Macrocarpa Wilma grow?
A: This shrub can reach up to 10 feet tall, but typically stays around 6 feet.
Q: Is Cupressus Macrocarpa Wilma resistant to pests and diseases?
A: This shrub is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to spider mites, canker disease, and root rot.
Related Plants
– Cupressus macrocarpa (Monterey Cypress)- Cupressus sempervirens (Italian Cypress)- Chamaecyparis pisifera (Sawara Cypress)
References
– University of Florida IFAS Extension: Cupressus Macrocarpa- Missouri Botanical Garden: Cupressus Macrocarpa Wilma- Royal Horticultural Society: Cupressus Macrocarpa ‘Wilma’
