Editor’s Note: That Iconic, Pesky Cypress Tree

I have a love-hate relationship with cypress trees. They are incredibly beautiful trees — there is no doubt about that. And they are also iconic and so representative of Louisiana. But I’ve got two of them on either side of my house and the number of roots and knees that have snuck across the property lines is mind-boggling. The gnarly brown bumps rise out of the ground, strong enough to push stepping stones up and completely out of whack. From the tree to my house, there are probably 12 feet, and the cypress knees have easily reached that far. I imagine they’re under my house as well. I’ve tried sawing them down, but stubborn things — they grow back. I can’t count the times I’ve tripped over them or broken lawn mower blades inadvertently running them over. They’re insidious and pervasive. And don’t get me started on the leaves and seed cones that drop and stain everything in the winter. So, in that way, no, I’m not a fan. 

That being said, I also feel very nostalgic about these trees and count myself lucky to drive past them when I go down Interstate 55 and pass through Manchac every week. Especially at sunset. The light shining on the water, cypress trees lining the horizon, lacy Spanish moss drifting down, blowing in the wind — it’s as lovely as a painting. The tin-roofed houses and camps surrounded by cypress trees are something you’d only see in Louisiana. Another connection I have to them is from my aunt’s house in Grand Bayou. Whenever we’d go to see her, we’d paddle around in her flat boat, weaving in and out of cypress trees, listening to her tell stories or sing. She was the one who taught me how far down the tap root could go — my young mind was amazed at that. My aunt is no longer alive, and I haven’t gone back that way in years, but cypress trees do remind me of her. 

In this issue, David Jennings explores the amazing old-growth bald cypress tree through words and photos.  Also, in this issue, Cheré Coen takes us on a cultural tour of the state, pointing out the interesting places we can go to see a play, concert or art exhibit. We are rich in the arts here in Louisiana and most cities have a multitude of spaces celebrating that.

So take advantage of all the things the state has to offer, whether natural or human-made. Just watch where you’re walking when you’re out and about so you don’t trip on one of those treacherous cypress knees.