Summer Cypress
Bassia scoparia
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Pl. 37FD — Bassia scoparia
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IOverview
Overview
Summer Cypress (Bassia scoparia) is an annual forb or herb native to a wide range of regions including Altay, Amur, Buryatiya, and various areas in China and Russia. It thrives in full sun with moist soil that is light (sandy) or medium in texture, and can tolerate hardiness zones 5-9. Standing at about 0.3 meters tall, this plant is known for its edible leaves and seeds, making it a valuable addition to gardens where it can be appreciated both for its ornamental value and culinary uses. Its adaptability to diverse climates and soils makes Summer Cypress a versatile choice for gardeners in suitable regions.
Quick answers
What is Summer Cypress?
Summer Cypress (Bassia scoparia) is an annual forb or herb native to a wide range of regions including Altay, Amur, Buryatiya, and various areas in China and Russia. It thrives in full sun with moist soil that is light (sandy) or medium in texture, and can tolerate hardiness zones 5-9.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Summer Cypress thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy) or medium. It is hardy in zones 5-9 and can grow up to 0.3 meters tall as an annual forb/herb. For propagation, seeds are the recommended method. Ensure the soil is well-draining and keep it consistently moist for best growth. Skip fertilizers unless necessary due to poor soil conditions.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
5-9
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.3 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Summer Cypress for the first time
8steps
Start with Summer Cypress as an easy-to-grow annual herb for beginners.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds, a small pot or garden bed, and some basic gardening tools.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, when temperatures are consistently above 10°C (50°F).
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a well-draining soil mix. For containers, choose one at least 20 cm (8 inches) wide.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the garden or start them indoors 4-6 weeks before planting outside.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist. Place in a sunny spot, ensuring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- 6
Ongoing care
Continue regular watering and mulching to retain moisture. Fertilize lightly every few weeks with compost.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back after flowering to encourage new growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting sunlight, not providing enough space for growth.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeed
Edible uses: The Summer Cypress, with its edible leaves and seeds, can be enjoyed fresh or dried. The leaves are often used in salads or as a garnish, while the seeds can be roasted for a crunchy snack or ground into flour. Both parts add a unique flavor to dishes.
Other uses:CraftingAnimal feed
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 30 native
Europe2 regions
native (2)CyprusRussia
Asia8 regions
native (8)ChinaIranIraqJapanKazakhstanMongoliaSouth KoreaTurkey
Broader regions
native:Amur, Transcaucasus, Hainan, Buryatiya, Altay, Krasnoyarsk, Lebanon-Syria, Primorye, Sakhalin, Khabarovsk, Kirgizstan
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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