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Blue Atlas cedar

Cedrus atlantica f. glauca

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This stunning evergreen conifer can be a very large specimen tree (to over 100 feet) in the landscape. Its young, silvery foliage turns vivid glaucous blue as it ages; the sharply pointed leaves are arranged in whorls. Female cones are green and can be up to 4 inches long; they ripen slowly over 2 years to pale brown. This tree needs a lot of space to reach its majestic potential.

Noteworthy CharacteristicsSilvery blue foliage. Fissured silvery gray bark. Native to the Atlas Mountains of Morocco.

CareNeeds a sunny, open site. Tolerant of most soil types, but must be well-drained. Heavy snow can break branches.

PropagationBefore sowing in spring, pre-chill the seeds in moist conditions at 32° to 34°F for three weeks.

ProblemsTip blight, pinewood nematode, root rot, stem cankers, die back, scale insects, pine sawfly, mealybugs, and caterpillars are possibilities.

Fine Gardening Recommended Products

DeWalt Variable-Speed Cordless Reciprocating Saw

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

You can fit a variety of blades to this saw to cut fallen branches or prune larger limbs from trees in a pinch. It’s fast, tough, easy to use, and extremely versatile.
- 18.31 x 6.13 x 4 inches
- 1-1/8-inch stroke length
- Variable speed trigger with 0-3000 spm
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The Nature of Oaks: The Rich Ecology of Our Most Essential Native Trees

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The Nature of Oaks reveals what is going on in oak trees month by month, highlighting the seasonal cycles of life, death, and renewal. From woodpeckers who collect and store hundreds of acorns for sustenance to the beauty of jewel caterpillars, Doug Tallamy illuminates and celebrates the wonders that occur right in our own backyards. He also shares practical advice about how to plant and care for an oak, along with information about the best oak species for your area.
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DeWalt Variable-Speed Cordless Reciprocating Saw with 6-Piece Saw Blade Set

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

You can fit a variety of blades to this saw to cut fallen branches or prune larger limbs from trees in a pinch. It’s fast, tough, easy to use, and extremely versatile.
- 18.31 x 6.13 x 4 inches
- 1-1/8-inch stroke length
- Variable speed trigger with 0-3000 spm
- DW4856 Metal/Woodcutting Reciprocating Saw Blade Set, 6-Piece
Buy at Amazon
  • Genus : Cedrus
  • Plant Height : 30 feet or more
  • Plant Width : 30 feet or more
  • Zones : 6, 7, 8, 9
  • Moisture : Dry
  • Light : Full Sun
  • Growth Rate : Moderate
  • Maintenance : Moderate
  • Characteristics : Showy Foliage
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest
  • Plant Type : Trees

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