Mediterranean cypress
Wind-pollinated, nectarless tree that provides a little pollen in late winter and resin for propolis.
- Nectar
- None
- Pollen
- Low
- Flowering
- JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
- Height
- 20-30 m
- Life cycle
- Perennial
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Mediterranean cypress is wind-pollinated and produces no nectar. The small male cones at the branch tips release plenty of pollen in late winter; on mild days, when no other source is available, honey bees may collect this pollen. However, cypress pollen is considered to be of low nutritional value and is not a source bees prefer.
Flowering
From February to April, earlier in coastal areas. The pollen is one of the main causes of spring allergies in people.
Propolis
Resin oozing from the cones and shoots is counted among the sources of Mediterranean propolis; bees collect resin especially on hot days.
Note for the beekeeper
It can be planted around the apiary as a windbreak; its upright, dense habit shelters hives from the north wind. It contributes nothing to the honey flow, so cypress stands should not be counted as a nectar source when choosing an apiary site.