Nootka cypress

Species belonging to the cypress genus have been part of many cultures since time immemorial. They honor death as a natural path to understanding the immortal nature of our soul. In Iranian Muslim tradition, they are known to ward off evil spirits and are a symbol of hope for the bereaved.

Native to the north-west coast of North America, Nootka Cypress is a tree that usually grows in high mountains, in inhospitable locations that sometimes reach the tree line. It can reach heights of up to 40 metres and diameters of up to 2 metres where there is sufficient humidity and mild temperatures. In Quebec, it more often reaches 25 meters. Its hanging twigs are the result of a long evolutionary process, since the species has been subjected over time to long, harsh winters with heavy snowfalls. To avoid losing its branches, it has adapted by spreading its twigs downwards.

This tree represents hope and adaptation.

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