How to Grow Cedrus Deodara - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2025

Cedrus deodara is a species of cedar native to the Himalayas. It is an evergreen conifer with a large, conical crown and blue-green needles. The cedarwood is oily and resinous, and was used in ancient times for incense and perfumes. The tree is also known as the deodar cedar, Himalayan cedar, and Indian cedar.

How to Grow Cedrus Deodara - Plant Care & Tips

Also called

  • Himalayan cedar
  • Deodar cedar
  • Indian cedar
  • East Indian cedar
  • Afghan cedar

Things to Know

  • Cedrus deodara is a species of cedar native to the Himalayas.
  • It is the national tree of Pakistan.
  • It grows to 30-40 m tall, with a trunk up to 5 m in diameter.
  • The leaves are evergreen, needle-like, 5-15 cm long and 2-3 mm broad.
  • The seed cones are ovoid, 5-8 cm long and 4-5 cm broad, with 15-20 scales arranged in pairs.
  • The cones terminate in a woody prickle 3-4 cm long.
  • The timber is soft, light, and aromatic, and is used for construction, carving, and paper pulp.
  • The tree is also grown as an ornamental plant.
  • It is also grown for its resin, which is used as an incense and for making varnish.
  • The species is also grown as a source of timber in Nepal, India, and Bhutan.

Growing Steps

  1. For cedrus deodara, first step is to choose a suitable location. The plant prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
  2. Prepare the planting area by clearing the ground of all debris.
  3. Loosen the soil to a depth of about 12 inches.
  4. Create a mound in the planting area.
  5. Place the cedrus deodara plant on the mound.
  6. Backfill the planting hole with the loosened soil.
  7. Tamp down the soil gently.
  8. Water the plant deeply.
  9. Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant.
  10. Keep the area around the plant free of weeds.

Related plant:
Cedrus Atlantica

The Soil

About soil condition, cedrus deodara can grow in well-drained soils, but it prefer deep, rich, moist soils. It is tolerant of heavy clay soils. It is also tolerant of poor soils, but growth may be stunted in such conditions.

Light requirement

Not too different with other types of cedar trees, the Cedrus deodara requires full sun in order to grow and thrive. This means that it should be planted in an area of the yard that gets direct sunlight for at least six hours each day. It is also important to note that the tree does not do well in shade or in areas that are too windy.

Ideal Temperature

The temperature condition that is ideal for the growth of cedrus deodara is between 15 to 20 degrees Celsius. This temperature range is perfect for the tree to grow and thrive. anything below or above this range can stunt the growth of the tree or even kill it.

Humidity Requirement

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 40-50%. The plant can also tolerate lower humidity, but it may result in the leaves turning brown and dropping off. If the humidity is too high, the leaves will turn yellow and drop off.

The Fertilizer

Regarding fertilizer, usually the plant does not need much. If you live in an area with low natural rainfall, you may need to water more frequently than average. The cedar prefers a deep, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. It is also important to ensure that the roots have plenty of room to grow. If the roots become too crowded, the tree may become stressed and more susceptible to disease.

Light requirement

Pruning is an important part of keeping your cedar deodara healthy and looking its best. Pruning helps to remove diseased or damaged branches, encourage new growth, and keep the plant tidy. When pruning, be sure to use sharp, clean pruning tools to avoid damaging the plant.

About Propagating

Propagation of cedrus deodara is best performed by seed. The optimum time for sowing is in the spring, when the temperature is warm and the days are long. The seeds should be sown in a well-drained soil mix and kept moist. Once they have germinated, the seedlings should be transplanted into individual pots and grown on under glass.

Plant Growth

Usually, the plant growth rate is fast when they are young. They can grow up to 2.5 meters in their first 10 years. After that, their growth slows down and they may only grow another 0.5 meters in height.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are pests, diseases, and cultural problems. Pests include aphids, scale, and whiteflies. Diseases include Phytophthora root rot and needle cast. Needle cast is a common disease in cedrus deodara, and it is caused by a fungus. Phytophthora root rot is caused by a water mold, and it can kill the tree. Cultural problems include over-watering, and poor drainage.

List to Know

  • Do not forget to water your cedar tree regularly. Keep the soil moist, but not soggy.
  • Fertilize your cedar tree every year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
  • Prune your cedar tree regularly to encourage new growth and to keep it looking its best.
  • Cedar trees prefer full sun, but can tolerate some partial shade.
  • Plant your cedar tree in a well-drained spot.
  • Keep an eye out for pests and diseases. Cedar trees are generally resistant to most problems, but can be susceptible to aphids and scale.
  • Cedar trees are fast-growing, so be prepared to give them some extra room to spread out.
  • Cedar trees can live for hundreds of years, so consider planting one as an heirloom for future generations.
  • Cedar trees are a popular choice for bonsai. If you’

Alternative Plants

  • Cedrus deodara ‘Feelin’ Blue’ – has bluish needles, a slow-growing and round shape.
  • Cedrus deodara ‘Glauca’ (Blue Cedar) – has a beautiful bluish coloration.
  • Cedrus deodara ‘Himalayan Blue’ – has dense and blue needles.
  • Cedrus deodara ‘Kashmir’ – has unique and long needles, a bluish-green coloration.
  • Cedrus deodara ‘Laburnum’ – has beautiful and long needles, a deep green coloration.
  • Cedrus deodara ‘Nana’ – has short, dense, blue needles.
  • Cedrus deodara ‘Pendula’ – has weeping branches, and dense and blue needles.
  • Cedrus deod

Source:
Cedrus deodara - UDBG
Deodar Cedar | Oklahoma State University
Cedrus deodara | Trees of Stanford & Environs

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Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Trees Category