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If we consider trees from a decorative point of view, then it is impossible to ignore such species as thuja and cypress. These trees, as a rule, are used as a decorative hedge, with their help they decorate the facades of buildings and structures. It is important to understand that there are species that have the maximum similarity, as a result of which it is sometimes quite difficult to understand how exactly thuja differs from cypress.
What is the difference between cypress and thuja
To understand the differences between cypress and thuja, it is recommended to compare biological characteristics. As a rule, this applies to cones:
- thuja cones are oblong in shape, they have several pairs of scales that are arranged crosswise;
- cypress cones are distinguished by a spherical shape, while they have multifaceted shields of scales.
It is also worth taking into account the location of the needles, since it is located in different planes of the cypress with a pronounced ethereal smell, and in one of the arborvitae, with a rather bright sweet smell.
In addition, it is important to understand that these cultures differ in their medicinal properties. For example, thuja has an antibacterial effect, helps to optimize blood circulation, relieves inflammation and spasms. The oil of the tree of the second type allows you to deal with stress, it is actively used to treat bronchitis.
Differences between cypress and thuja at the place of growth
These plants are fairly close relatives, with the exception of the preference for climatic conditions. Thuja prefers to grow in cool areas, which is why it is grown mainly in the middle lane. Cypress prefers the subtropics.
If we consider the natural habitat of thuja, then it is worth noting that the species is mainly located in the southeastern part of Canada and in the northern part of the United States. In addition, trees can be found on the western side of Anticosti Island. Also, thuja can be found in New York, Tennessee, Minnesota.
The natural habitat of cypress is the territory of Sakhalin, Crimea, China, America, the Caucasus, as well as the Black Sea coast.
How to distinguish thuja from cypress visually
Thuja is an evergreen coniferous plant belonging to the Cypress family. All thuja shoots are covered with needles in the form of small needles. In the spring, the shoots become a rich green hue, closer to autumn the color becomes much darker, during the cold season it is brown. The visual difference in this case lies in flowering. Thus, the male spikelets of thuja are located in the lower part of the tree and have a brownish-yellow hue. Female spikelets are much lighter and are located in the upper part. Thuja blooms until the young shoots grow, after which oval-shaped cones appear.
Cypress is a bright representative of decorative coniferous trees. This type is actively used in landscape design. It is important to understand that cypress and thuja look very similar in shade, needles and shoots. The difference is that the cones are not oval, but round.
Which is better – cypress or thuja
It is impossible to give a definite answer and say what exactly will be better. Each species is good in its own way, has an attractive appearance. In this case, everyone should choose what they like, taking into account the differences.
Thuya. A great option for decorating sites that have a lack of lighting. Most often used as a hedge. The difference lies in the fact that this variety can grow on swampy and peaty soils, on which, as a rule, most cultivated plants cannot grow. Under natural conditions, the height of the thuja can reach up to 25 m. The crown has a narrow pyramidal shape, which eventually becomes oval.
Cypress is one of the most popular ornamental species used for hedges. As a rule, planted in gardens and parks. Due to the presence of varieties of small size, if necessary, it can be used as an ornamental houseplant.
Features of caring for thuja and cypress
If we consider the differences in care between thuja and cypress, then all procedures will basically be the same. Since in both cases proper and high-quality care is necessary.
After the planting material has been planted in open ground, the following work will be required:
- water the crop – watering should be frequent and moderate, the soil should not be waterlogged and very dry;
- loosening is carried out after each irrigation of the soil;
- weed removal is an important point that needs to be given due attention. This is due to the fact that weeds take away all the nutrients from the soil, as a result of which the planting material develops very poorly;
- top dressing – in this case, you can use combined mineral fertilizers and organic matter, which will allow plantings to grow much faster;
- before the onset of the first cold weather, it is necessary to take care of shelter, which will prevent freezing of young shoots.
Conclusion
Thuja differs from cypress not only in the place of growth, but also in appearance. The difference lies mainly in the shape of the cones. If you understand what exactly to pay attention to, then you can quite easily distinguish the two types visually.
