Taxodium is a genus of coniferous trees commonly known as cypress. These trees are native to the southeastern United States and are often found in wetland areas. They are characterized by their distinctive, flared trunks and needle-like leaves that turn a vibrant orange-brown in the fall. There are three main species of Taxodium: Taxodium distichum, known as the bald cypress, Taxodium mucronatum, or the Montezuma cypress, and Taxodium ascendens, referred to as the pond cypress. These trees are valued for their durability and resistance to rot, making them popular choices for landscaping and timber production.