PLANTS
Cypress Trees
Two species of cypress trees inhabit the Big Cypress National Preserve, these include the bald cypress (Texodium distichum) and the pond cypress (T. ascendens). There is a scientific debate whether there is actually a difference between the two, or if they are the same species affected by different growing and environmental conditions, but most scientists agree that they are in fact two separate species. Both of these trees make up what we know as cypress domes.
Bald Cypress
The bald cypress (T. distichum) have flat and feather-like needles. They tend to grow in areas with deeper water. So, the larger trees found within the cypress dome (which are closer to the center) are usually Bald Cypress.
Pond Cypress
The pond cypress (T. ascendens) leafs are scaled and awl-shaped (broad at the base tapering gently upward to a slender stiff point). They are well adapted to the wet conditions that the cypress domes provide, although they tend to grow more in the shallower regions of a cypress dome. Therefore, they also tend to be smaller.
Willow
Willows are found throughout Florida’s wetland habitats, including cypress domes. There are four species of willow found in Florida, one of which is endemic. Willows typically survive in areas with deeper water that tend to be protected from fire. Areas around alligator holes and flag ponds create isolated patches of willow called “willow heads”. They support greater species diversity than most wetland habitats, creating excellent feeding and nesting areas for a variety of wetland and upland birds. Willow also provides cover and forage for mammals, such as white tailed deer.
Alligator Flag
Aliigator flag/Fire flag is a large plant that grows from a thick rhizome. It grows in a wet area where its base is usually submerged. Large simple leaves on long stalks are among fire flag's most notable features. The leaves are broadly lance-shaped, with broadly rounded bases. They can be up to eight inches wide and more than 2 1/2 feet long. Several leaves growing together are sheathed at the base. Alligator flag flowers are paired; that is, two flowering bracts emerge on top of a tall flower stalk.
Epiphytes
An epiphyte (or air plant) is a plant that grows upon another plant (such as a cypress tree) non-parasitically, derives its moisture and nutrients from the air, rain and sometimes from debris accumulating around it. The plants grow on branches and tree trunks, using their tiny roots to anchor themselves to the bark. Major epiphytes found in cypress domes are ferns, bromeliads (old man's beard and wild pine) and orchids.
Pond Apple
Annona glabra, currently restricted to south Florida swamps, bogs and cypress domes. Fruit are yellow with pinkish orange inside. This is a species that thrives in a longer hydro-period and deeper water than most. The interior of a cypress dome is ideal for the pond apple.