Sargent cypress is a native, evergreen tree with a slender main trunk.
Cone production is abundant. Cypress seeds require bare mineral soil for germination and establishment. Facultative Seral Species Site requirements for cypress seedlings are typical of those for pioneer conifers. Most chaparral species inhibit the establishment of cypress seedlings on most sites due to competition. However, most chaparral species are less able to compete on serpentine soils where Sargent cypress is often found.