Blue atlas cedar is an evergreen conifer that can reach up to 40 m (130 ft) in height. It has a conical to oval-conical crown with spreading to drooping branchlets. The leaves are needle-like and blue-green to blue-grey in color. The cones are ovoid to oblong and blue-black in color.
Also known as
- Cedrus Atlantica 'Glauca'
- Cedrus Atlantica var. Glauca
- Cedrus Atlantica 'Pendula'
- Cedrus Libani 'Glauca'
- Thuja Occidentalis 'Glauca'
Things to Know
- The blue atlas cedar (Cedrus atlantica 'Glauca') is a coniferous evergreen tree that is native to the Atlas Mountains of Algeria and Morocco.
- It is a large tree, typically growing to 30-40 m (98-131 ft) tall and 15-25 m (49-82 ft) wide, with a heavy, broadly conical to ovoid crown.
- The blue atlas cedar has distinctively blue-green needles, which are arranged in dense clusters on the branchlets.
- The cones are ovoid, 6-8 cm (4-1 in) long and 4-5 cm (6-0 in) broad, with about 20-30 scales.
- The blue atlas cedar is widely cultivated as an ornamental tree in many parts of the world.
- It is also used for timber production and as a source of cedarwood oil.
- The blue atlas cedar is known to be resistant to the devastating fungal disease known as Phytophthora cinnamomi, which has caused extensive mortality of other Cedrus species such as the related Atlantic cedar (C. atlantica).
- The blue atlas cedar is also relatively tolerant to drought and salt spray, making it a suitable tree for planting in coastal areas.
- The wood of the blue atlas cedar is strong and durable, and is often used in the construction of outdoor furniture and decking.
- The blue atlas cedar is an important tree in the ecology of the Atlas Mountains, providing shelter and food for a variety of animals and birds.
Related plant:
Buddleja Davidii Nanho Blue
Planting Process
- For blue atlas cedar, first step is to find a place where the tree can get sunlight for most of the day.
- The next step is to start clearing the area where the tree will be planted.
- After that, you need to dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the trees roots.
- Once the hole is dug, place the tree in it and fill the hole with soil.
- After that, use a garden hose to water the tree deeply.
- The next step is to mulch around the tree.
- Then, you need to fertilize the tree.
- The next step is to prune the tree.
- After that, you need to water the tree regularly.
- The last step is to enjoy your blue atlas cedar!
Soil Requirement
About soil condition, blue atlas cedar (Cedrus atlantica 'Glauca') prefers well-drained soil, and does not do well in soggy conditions. It is important to make sure the planting site is not too wet, as this can lead to problems with the roots. Blue atlas cedar is a moderately drought tolerant once established, but will look its best with regular watering during prolonged dry periods.
Light requirement
Not too different with other cedar trees, the blue atlas cedar requires full sun to partial sun in order to grow properly. This tree can reach up to 40 feet in height, so it is important to make sure that it has enough space to grow. This cedar tree is also known for its beautiful blue-green needles, which make it a popular choice for landscaping.
Ideal Temperature
The temperature condition that is best for the blue atlas cedar is cool to cold weather. This tree is not tolerant of high heat and needs a cool climate to thrive. It is a good choice for gardeners in cooler climates who are looking for an evergreen tree that is low maintenance.
Humidity Aspect
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 40-50%. This plant prefers a well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It does not tolerate wet or soggy conditions. If the air is too dry, the leaves will turn brown and fall off.
Fertilizer Requirement
The fertilizer, this type of plant needs, is important for its overall health and growth. The roots of the plant are very important in regards to its ability to uptake the nutrients it needs from the soil. It is important to ensure that the roots have access to the necessary nutrients for optimal growth.
About light
Pruning a blue atlas cedar (Cedrus atlantica 'Glauca') is best done in late winter to early spring before new growth begins. This evergreen tree has a pyramidal shape with blue-green needles. It can grow to 40 feet tall and 20 feet wide. To maintain its shape and size, prune off any dead or diseased branches as well as any branches that are growing out of bounds.
The Propagation
Propagation is best done by seed, although softwood and hardwood cuttings can also be taken. The seed should be sown in a cold frame in early spring. Softwood cuttings are best taken in late spring or early summer, while hardwood cuttings are best taken in late summer or early autumn.
Growth Speed
Usually, the plant growth rate is about 2.5 feet per year. The maximum growth rate for this species has not been determined. The slow to moderate growth rate and dense, blue-green foliage of blue atlas cedar make it an ideal plant for use as a screen or hedge. It is also often used as an accent or specimen plant in the landscape.
Common Problems
Common problems for this kind of plant are Cedrus atlantica 'Glauca' are needle cast and dieback. Needle cast is a fungus that attacks the new growth of the tree, causing the needles to turn brown and fall off. Dieback is a general term used to describe the gradual death of the tree from the top down. It is caused by a combination of factors, including pests, disease, and environmental stress.
Tips on Growing
- If you live in an area with cold winters, it's best to plant your blue atlas cedar in the spring.
- Choose a location for your tree that receives full sun.
- Prepare the planting area by clearing away any weeds or other vegetation.
- Dig a hole that is twice as wide and just as deep as the tree's root ball.
- Loosen the roots of the tree's root ball before placing it in the hole.
- Fill in the hole with soil, tamping it down as you go.
- Water the tree deeply immediately after planting.
- Apply a layer of mulch around the tree's base, but do not pile it up against the trunk.
- Fertilize your blue atlas cedar every spring with a slow-release tree fertilizer.
- Prune your tree annually to shape it and remove any dead or damaged branches
Similar Plants
- Western red cedar (Thuja plicata)
- Atlantic white cedar (Chamaecyparis thyoides)
- Yellow cedar (Chamaecyparis nootkatensis)
- Eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana)
- Cypress (Cupressus spp.)
- Arborvitae (Thuja spp.)
- Leyland cypress (x Cupressocyparis leylandii)
- Mugo pine (Pinus mugo)
- Ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa)
- Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii)
Source:
CalPhotos - University of California, Berkeley
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Reviewed & Published by Richelle
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