| The genus Cupressus has been
interpreted to include ~24 species distributed in the Mediterranean, e Asia and
west into the Himalayas, and w N & S Amer. (Earle, The Gymnosperm
Database, http://www.conifers.org/cu/Cupressus.php); however, during the past decade, molecular studies have
led to splitting of the genus and transfer of species among four genera: Cupressus
with ~9 spp in the Old World, Callitropsis with 1 sp. nw N
Amer.,
Chamaecyparis with 2 spp in N. Amer. and 3 in e Asia), and Hesperocyparis
(16 spp. w N Amer. to Columbia (Adams et al. 2009). Delimitation of
the species and varieties have continued to be revised as well. Hesperocyparis is distinguished by the woody cones, often persistent on older branches and opening (scales separating) upon fire, in contrast to the succulent cones of Juniperus with fused scales, developing at the ends of leafy green branches (or in axils of leaves). References: Adams, R.P., J.A. Bartel and R.A. Price. 2009. A new genus, Hesperocyparis, for the cypresses of the western hemisphere. Phytologia 91: 160–185. See also Waynes World. http://waynesword.palomar.edu/trfeb98a.htm for a comparison of cones among species.
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-Hesperocyparis-macroca.jpg)
