I have personally trained this Bald Cypress for a full 26 years. I originally purchased it on eBay, so its estimated age is around 40 years. Throughout the training process, whenever a branch emerged in an incorrect position, I would cut it off—even branches I had nurtured for nearly 20 years. I did this because I was determined to create a flawless "formal upright" style specimen. Finally, about seven years ago, the branches began emerging in positions that met the strict standards for this style. Although there were technically "excess" branches, I kept them to ensure the foliage filled out on the sides and back. While the tree could be trimmed into a perfect triangular silhouette, I am currently maintaining a balanced shape to encourage more vigorous branch growth. Seven years ago, I also cut a branch on the front of the trunk to stimulate wound healing and increase girth, preparing for a future "split-trunk" technique extending from the base toward the apex. My goal is to increase the trunk's thickness; since I grow the tree outdoors, the current pot serves only a functional purpose and holds no aesthetic value. However, you will eventually want to repot it and carry out the trunk work I have planned over the last 26 years. I hope you complete that work before selecting a final display pot; naturally, I recommend leaving the tree as-is until next year after you receive it. Due to the tree's width and height, shipping and packaging costs are $125, and the selling price is $1,100. Please note that this is a final sale; returns are not accepted.