Atlas cedar - Cedrus atlantica (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Atlas cedar

Atlas cedar (Cedrus atlantica) is an endangered evergreen tree found primarily in the mountains of Morocco and Algeria. It can grow over 35 m tall and sports droopy-looking branches. Atlas cedar has been overused as a source of timber in its home range and has also been imported elsewhere for the same purpose. Atlas cedar provides homes for the similarly endangered Barbary macaque.

Scientific classification

Species

Atlas cedar (Cedrus atlantica)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Fall

Bloom Time

Fall, Winter

Harvest Time

30 m to 40 m

Plant Height

90 cm to 3.5 m

Spread

Green, Blue, Silver

Leaf Color

Brown

Fruit Color

Green, Yellow

Flower Color

Gray, Silver, Brown, Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Images of Atlas cedar

Distribution of Atlas cedar

Distribution Map

Atlas cedar is indigenous to the mountainous regions of North Africa. Beyond its native habitat, it has been introduced and cultivated in various parts of Europe and Asia. Cultivation can also be found across the globe for ornamental use in diverse climates, from temperate to Mediterranean zones.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Upper slopes

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

The award-winning atlas cedar might look a bit scrawny at first, but it develops into a large, full, blue-tinged evergreen that can effectively decorate any landscape all year round. It's a solitary tree that needs a spacious area to thrive, so you can plant it as a towering centerpiece in an informal or cottage garden, particularly near ornamental buildings.

Symbolism

Power and prestige

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Atlas cedar, including the following common varieties :

Atlas cedar 'Glauca'Atlas cedar 'Glauca Pendula'

Quickly Identify Atlas cedar

Needles have a triangular to quadrangular cross-section, unique in genus.

Female cones are barrel-shaped, rest on branches, and lack petals.

Leaves are bluish-green to silvery-blue, in tufted clusters.

Stems are brown to gray, with stiff, horizontal branching.

Trunk matures into boxed bark pattern with deep, rectangular fissures.

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Care Guide for Atlas cedar

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Native to the Atlas Mountains, atlas cedar thrives in a climate of balanced dry and moist conditions. It requires consistent moisture, with weekly watering, and prefers well-draining soil. As an evergreen, atlas cedar benefits from natural rainfall, essential for maintaining its health and year-round foliage.

Fertilize: Nourish atlas cedar with balanced fertilizers in early spring, continuing biannually. Use 1 tablespoon per square foot of foliage. Avoid over-fertilization; water soil pre- and post-application. Increase nutrients during growth, but reduce feeding when dormant. Always follow fertilizer packaging instructions.

Pruning: Atlas cedar benefits from strategic pruning, including removing dead branches and thinning for air circulation. Optimal pruning occurs in early to late winter, promoting healthy growth while minimizing sap loss. Use clean, sharp tools for precise cuts to reduce disease risk.

Propagation: Atlas cedar is an evergreen with silvery-blue needles, propagated by sowing. Stratification simulates winter conditions for successful germination. Use fresh seeds from healthy trees, ensure well-draining soil, maintain consistent moisture, and provide adequate light for optimal seedling growth.

Repotting: Repot atlas cedar during its dormant season (late winter to early spring) every 2-3 years using deep containers. Ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering, as root health is vital for its impressive growth.

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