The Lone Cypress Trees at Pebble Beach, California is the symbol of the Pebble Beach Company that runs the elite resort on property and world-famous golf tournaments.
This hardy, salt-resistant tree is native to the Monterey Peninsula and can grow up to 82 feet in height. Its branches bend in the direction of the wind and eventually permanently contort to show wind direction.
The tree’s deep roots and its ability to grow in sandy soil make it an erosion fighter. This trait is very important in coastal areas.
The Lone Cypress at Pebble Beach appears to grow from bare rock on the a ledge over the coast. It’s improbable surroundings make it a sought after souvenir photo for tourists and a reminder for locals that their bent cypress trees hold expensive property in place.
More information about the Monterey Cypress follows:
By Ruth Paget, author Eating Soup with Chopsticks and Marrying France and developer of the Novgorod and Bento War Games
