Bald cypress is unusual because it is one of the few conifers that looses its needles in the winter. It produces cones that are quite different from pines. The cones are round balls which split open along the lines producing rounded scales something like thumbtacks. The seeds fall from between the scales.
Bald cypress is not found naturally in middle Tennessee. However it is an important swamp tree along the Mississippi River as far north as Illinois and along the southern coast. It is one of the few trees that can grow in standing water. In swamp conditions, the bottom of the tree develops "buttswell" by flaring out near the ground. Trees planted in dryer conditions do not show this trait.
Reverse direction and take the elevated walkway along the edge of MRB III until you come to the large staircase on the right. Take the stairs down to the street level, then make a U turn to the left. Cross the drive that enters the loading dock. Take the sidewalk along 21st Ave. and the next tree will be on your left. next tree