Maintenance Landscaping Design

Cedrus atlantica is a species of cedar native to the Atlas Mountains of Morocco, to the Rif Mountains of Morocco and Algeria. It is a large evergreen coniferous tree growing to 40–50 m tall and with a trunk diameter of 1.5–2.5 m. The leaves are needle-like, in clusters of three, 5–12 cm long and 2 mm broad. The cones are oblong, 5–9 cm long, 2–3 cm broad, blue-black with a thin, fragile, woody shell. The male cones are shed soon after shedding their pollen in late spring. The female cones persist and ripen in late autumn, with the seeds dispersing in early winter.

Alternative name

• Atlantic Cedar
  
• Blue Atlas Cedar
  
• Moroccan Cedar
  
• True Cedar
  
• Cedar of Lebanon

Common Knowledge

• Cedrus atlantica is a species of cedar native to the Atlas Mountains of Morocco.
  
• It is an evergreen tree with a conical to rounded crown, growing to 20–35 m (66–115 ft) tall.
  
• The leaves are needle-like, 2–5 cm (0.8–0 in) long, blue-green to glaucous in colour.
  
• The fruit is a brown, woody cone 5–8 cm (0–1 in) long, containing 10-20 seeds.
  
• Cedrus atlantica is widely cultivated as an ornamental tree in parks and gardens.
  
• It is also used in forestry for timber and paper production.
  
• The wood is durable and resistant to decay, making it an ideal material for construction, furniture and musical instruments.
  
• The tree is also a source of cedarwood oil, which is used in perfumes and cosmetics.
  
• Cedrus atlantica is classified as vulnerable by the IUCN due to habitat loss and over-exploitation.
  
• Conservation efforts are underway to protect remaining populations in the wild.

Related plant:
Cedrus Deodara

Growing Steps

1. For cedrus atlantica, first step is planting the sapling in early spring or late fall.
   
2. The second step is to water the sapling regularly, making sure the soil is moist but not soggy.
   
3. Once the cedrus atlantica sapling has established itself, fertilize it with a slow-release fertilizer made for evergreens.
   
4. The fourth step is to ensure that the cedrus atlantica has plenty of sunlight. It should be planted in an area that gets at least six hours of sunlight per day.
   
5. Cedrus atlantica will need to be pruned every few years to maintain its shape and size.
   
6. If you live in an area where deer are a problem, you may need to take steps to protect your cedrus atlantica from them.
   
7. Cedrus atlantica is susceptible to a number of diseases and pests. Watch for signs of these problems and treat them promptly.
   
8. Cedrus atlantica can be propagated from seed or cuttings.
   
9. The final step is to enjoy your cedrus atlantica!

Related plant:
Cedrus Libani

Soil Condition

About soil condition, Cedrus atlantica prefers deep, fertile, well-drained soils, but it is drought tolerant. It does not tolerate waterlogging. It has a moderately fast growth rate and can reach a height of 30 to 40 m (98 to 131 ft) and a diameter of 1 m (3 ft) in 20 to 30 years.

Light requirement

Just like other members of the Cedrus genus, the Cedrus atlantica tree thrives in full sun. It is a hardy tree that can tolerate long periods of drought, but it will not produce as much fruit if it does not have enough water. This tree requires well-drained soil and does not like to be waterlogged. It is a fast-growing tree, but it can be susceptible to wind damage.

The Temperature

The temperature condition that is best for the growth of cedrus atlantica is between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius. This temperature range is optimal for the growth of the plant, as it is not too hot or too cold. If the temperature gets too hot or too cold, the plant will not be able to grow properly.

Humidity Requirement

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 50% - 60%. They cannot tolerate long periods of dryness and will start to drop their needles if the air becomes too dry. These plants prefer a moderate to high humidity level and will do best if placed in a room with a humidifier.

Fertilizing

Regarding fertilizer, usually the plant does not need much additional nutrients if the soil is healthy. Once every two or three months, a light fertilizer can be applied if desired. When it comes to the roots, it is important to keep them moist but not wet. The plant does not like to have its roots sitting in water.

About light

Pruning is an important part of keeping your cedrus atlantica healthy and looking its best. This evergreen tree can grow to be quite large, so regular pruning is necessary to maintain its shape and size. You can prune your cedrus atlantica any time of year, but late winter or early spring is ideal. Just be sure to use sharp, clean pruning shears to avoid damaging the tree.

About Propagating

Propagation of cedar atlantica is best done by rooting softwood cuttings taken from the plant in late spring. The cuttings should be taken from the tips of the shoots and should be about 6 inches long. Cuttings should be made just below a node, and the bottom leaves should be removed. Cuttings should be rooted in a mix of perlite and sand. Rooting hormone can be used to encourage rooting. Cuttings should be kept moist and in a humid environment until they have rooted.

Growth Speed

Usually, the plant growth rate studies have been done in North America, where the species is native. In one study, cedrus atlantica was found to have a mean annual growth rate of 1.24 m (4.1 ft). In another study, the mean annual growth rate was found to be 1.37 m (4.5 ft). These studies suggest that cedrus atlantica has a relatively fast growth rate.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are pests, diseases, and under watering. For pests, aphids and scale insects can be a problem. For diseases, canker and root rot can be an issue. Under watering can cause the needles to turn brown and drop off.

List to Know

• Remember to keep your cedrus atlantica plant well watered, especially during hot summer months.
  
• Fertilize your plant regularly using a balanced fertilizer.
  
• Place your plant in a location where it will receive full sun for best growth.
  
• Prune your cedrus atlantica regularly to encourage new growth and to keep it looking its best.
  
• Keep an eye out for pests or diseases and treat them promptly if found.
  
• Make sure the pot or container you are growing your plant in has adequate drainage.
  
• When repotting, use a slightly larger pot or container and fresh potting mix.
  
• Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
  
• Take care not to injure the bark when handling or moving your plant.
  
• Enjoy the beauty of your cedrus atlantica plant!

Alternative Plants

• Cedrus brevifolia: Cedrus brevifolia, the Atlas cedar or Algerian cedar, is a cedar native to the Atlas Mountains of Morocco. A member of the genus Cedrus in the family Pinaceae, it is very closely related indeed to thecedars of the Lebanon and Cyprus, while some botanists treat it as a subspecies of Cedrus libani.
  
• Cedrus deodara: Cedrus deodara is a large evergreen conifer tree in the pine family Pinaceae. It is the species for which the general term cedar applies to conifers of the genus Cedrus. Common names include Himalayan cedar, deodar, Indian cedar and cedarwood.
  
• Cedrus atlantica 'Glauca'
  
• Cedrus brevifolia var. brevifolia
  
• cedar of Lebanon
  
• cedrus de

Source:
Cedrus atlantica | Tropical Restoration Library
Cedrus atlantica - UDBG
Cedrus atlantica | Trees of Stanford & Environs