'Italico' and 'Mediterraneo': Two Seiridium cardinale canker-resistant cypress cultivars of Cupressus sempervirens

Abstract

Common cypress (Cupressus sempervirens L.) is an integral feature of the landscape of many Mediterranean regions (particularly in Tuscany). Furthermore, common cypress has multiple uses as ornament, timber, windbreaks, recovery of deteriorated soils, protection of slopes and the production of essential oils. During the last three decades, Seiridum cardinale canker of cypress has caused severe losses in woods, windbreaks and ornamental plantings in the Mediterranean area, significantly limiting the use and cultivation of this tree. In this paper we describe 'Italico' and 'Mediterraneo', two C. sempervirens varieties which were patented in 2004 for their resistance to cypress canker. Both varieties are particularly suitable for ornamental purposes because of their fastigiated columnar habit and the low production of male flowers and cones. 'Italico' and 'Mediterraneo' represent the recent result of the breeding programme on cypress, in progress since the 1970s. This program aims at: 1) obtaining a high number of canker-resistant cypress clones and multi-clonal varieties to be used for ornamental plantings and windbreaks and 2) finding mother trees for the production of improved seed for reforestation purposes.