Cedrus encompasses 4 species from the forests of the western Himalayas and the Mediterranean. They are monoecious, evergreen, coniferous trees. The foliage resembles needles, and it grows in new whorls each year. Female cones are longer than male cones. They ripen slowly over 2 years and then break open. Cedars need plenty of space to grow, but make majestic specimen trees.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsLarge, spreading habit. Needle-like foliage. Evergreen.
CareLikes a sunny, open site in most any well-drained soil. Prune in late winter or early spring by removing wayward shoots.
PropagationPre-chill seeds in moist conditions at 32 to 34°F and then sow in spring. Some cultivars may be grafted in late summer or winter.
ProblemsPinewood nematode, root rot, needle blights, stem cankers, dieback, scale insects, pine sawfly, mealybugs, caterpillars.
