The wordcypress is derived fromOld Frenchcipres, which was imported fromLatincypressus, thelatinisation of theGreek κυπάρισσος (kyparissos).[2][3] The name derives fromCyparissus, a mythological figure who was turned into a cypress tree after killing astag.
Cypresses are trees or shrubs reaching heights of 1–50 metres (3.3–164.0 ft), exceptionally (inCupressus austrotibetica) 100 m (330 ft). Many exhibit aconical to columnar form, particularly in their youth, but some are prostrate, irregular, or shrubby. They are characterised by their scale-like,evergreen foliage and globose seed cones. Some species develop flattened, spreading crowns at maturity. Thebark of cypress trees varies, with some species having smooth surfaces, while most exhibit bark that separates into thin plates or strips, often shedding over time. The leaves of young cypress seedlings are spreading and awl-shaped, becoming small, scale-like leaves that tightly adhere to older branches when the seedlings are more than one to five years old, with glandular pits on the outer surface, and cover the stem in opposite pairs, giving the branchlet a four-sided appearance.[1] Many arearomatic.
A selection ofspecies that are commonly known as cypresses include the following (this is not a complete list; refer to the genus links for a fuller list for each genus):
In the most prevalent version of the story, Cyparissus receives astag as a gift from Apollo, which he accidentally kills with a spear while hunting in the forest. Cyparissus is overwhelmed by pain and sorrow, and asks Apollo to allow his tears to flow for eternity. Apollo transforms Cyparissus into a cypress tree, and thesap that typically drips down the tree's trunk represents Cyparissus' tears.[17][18]
Consequently, the cypress emerged as a symbol of mourning, sadness, and loss inclassical mythology, thereby serving anaetiological purpose in explaining its cultural significance.[17] Due to its connection to grief, the cypress became one of the symbols ofHades and has been planted in cemeteries since theclassical era. During theRenaissance period, the myth ofKyparissos was revived, and is depicted in several works of art and poetry.[17]
This page is an index of articles on plant species (or higher taxonomic groups) with the samecommon name (vernacular name). If aninternal link led you here, you may wish to edit the linking article so that it links directly to the intended article.
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