Cedar of Lebanon Cedrus libani

Cedrus libani is a evergreen conifer that is slow growing in it first 20 years.  It may only reach heights of 20' during that time period.  However, its mature height will typically reach 40-60', and occasionally taller.  Heights of up to 120' have been recorded.  A trunk up to 10' is common in mature trees.

Its form is pyramidal in youth.  As it ages, it becomes more dense and flat-topped, with horizontally spreading branches. This specimen has a thick massive trunk and is quite picturesque.

Native to Turkey, it is the most winter hardy cedar of the true cedars.  It has a columnar form with short green to blue-green to dark green needles and narrow 3-4 inch cones that mature every other year in the fall.  Its branches grow horizontally with the lower branches sweeping the ground.

Although it prefers acidic soil, it can also be grown in neutral and alkaline conditions.

This low-maintenance specimen needs no regular pruning.  It can form several leaders if left alone.  Pruning can be done to form a central leader.  This should be accomplished in the fall.  

Choose your planting location carefully, as this tree is often difficult to transplant.  

Its stately stature makes it a great choice for estate gardens and public parks.

Two types of cones are produced by Cedrus libani.  Its upright yellow cones are pollen-bearing,  They are up to 2" long and appear from summer through fall at the end of short shoots.  Erect seed cones are larger, up to 4" long.  Young cones are green/purple and mature to a reddish brown.  

Quick ID:

• All Cedrus genus members have new needles that are born singly on stems
• Needles are triangular to quadrangular in cross-section
• Female woody barrel-shaped cones sit on top of the branches

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  It is not tolerant of air pollution and shade.  A difficult tree to transplant.

There are no serious insect or disease issues.  It may incur root tot or tip blight.

Some people may have an allergic reaction with this tree.