Montezuma or “Mexican Cypress” is a deciduous tree native to the southwestern U.S., Mexico, and Guatemala. It is a separate species and is distinguished from the Bald Cypress by its shorter, persistent leaves and larger cones. Montezuma Cypress are more cold tolerant in the winter, staying green long after Bald Cypress have dropped their leaves, and leafing out earlier in the spring than Bald Cypress. Additionally, it’s not as prone to producing knees as Bald Cypress. It can reach heights of 60 to 80 feet and 30 to 45 feet wide.