Cedar of lebanon (Cedrus libani)

Cedar of lebanon

Also known as: Turkish cedar

Cedar of lebanon (Cedrus libani) is an evergreen conifer that will grow from 12 to 18 m tall. Native to the forests of Lebanon, it is a recipient of the Award of Merit by the Royal Horticultural Society. It is a slow growing tree that may only reach 6 m tall in its first 20 years. It thrives in full sun and prefers acidic, well-drained soil.

Scientific classification

Species

Cedar of lebanon (Cedrus libani)

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40 m

Plant Height

12 m to 18 m

Spread

Green, Silver, Blue, Gray

Leaf Color

8 cm to 15 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Copper

Fruit Color

Purple, Brown, Lavender

Flower Color

Gray, Silver

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Cedar of lebanon

Distribution of Cedar of lebanon

Distribution Map

Cedar of lebanon is naturally endemic to the mountainous regions of the Eastern Mediterranean. Its distribution extends to the temperate zones of the westernmost parts of Asia. Beyond its native range, cedar of lebanon has been introduced and cultivated in parts of southern Europe, select areas of South America, and regions with a comparable climate in North America. Cedar of lebanon is now cultivated in various global regions due to its adaptability and ornamental appeal.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Elevated mountains

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Interesting Facts

The size and long life of the cedar of lebanon are often used to symbolize strength and eternity in ancient literature. Cedar trees have been mentioned in the earliest known literature, such as The Epic of Gilgamesh and Old Testament writings from the Christian Bible. This tree is pictured on the flag of Lebanon.

Name Story

Cedar of lebanon: Cedar of lebanon, or Cedrus libani, is a species of tree from the Lebanon mountain range. Both the Latin epthithet, Libani, and the common name refer to this mountain range. Cedar, or cedrus, are names giving to any true that is a true cedar.

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Toxicity

The whole plant of cedar of lebanon is toxic to humans, cats, and dogs. Cedar of lebanon causes skin irritation and gastrointestinal discomfort. Symptoms in humans include nausea and vomiting; in cats and dogs, exposure to cedar of lebanon can lead to various systemic effects. Immediate veterinary care is essential if pets show signs of poisoning.

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Quickly Identify Cedar of lebanon

Purple-brown conical flowers, 3-5 inches (7.5-12.5 cm) tall, bloom late summer to early autumn.

Distinctive rigid erect cones, 3-8 inches (7.5-20 cm) long, shift from green to brown.

Needles are 0.75-1.5 inches (1.9-3.8 cm) long, dark green with silver blue stripes, in dense tufts.

Upright, robust trunk up to 6.5 feet (2 meters) wide, evolving bark with pleasant fragrance.

Matures to 40-60 feet (12-18 meters), slow-growing evergreen conifer with 30-40 needles per cluster.

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Care Guide for Cedar of lebanon

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Cedar of lebanon thrives in well-draining soil and requires consistent hydration without waterlogging. Originating from mountainous regions, it prefers moderate moisture and can tolerate dryness, ideally needing weekly watering to maintain its health. Typically grown outdoors, cedar of lebanon is an evergreen conifer.

Fertilize: Fertilize cedar of lebanon with balanced formulas in spring and fall, using less in winter. Over-fertilization harms roots. Proper timing and pre-watering prevent burn, enhancing growth and resilience. Adhere to product instructions for effective application.

Pruning: Cedar of lebanon is a coniferous evergreen that benefits from pruning in early to late winter to shape, remove dead wood, and promote healthy growth. Focus on thinning crowded branches for better air circulation, while avoiding heavy cutting to preserve its natural form and structure.

Propagation: Ideal for ornamental landscapes, cedar of lebanon is propagated mainly by sowing fresh seeds, lightly covered as it requires light for germination. Use a well-draining medium with consistent moisture, avoiding waterlogging. Seed stratification may improve rates, and careful transplanting of seedlings promotes longevity in gardens.

Repotting: Repot cedar of lebanon every 2-3 years in spring, using a large, deep container with well-draining soil. Ensure adequate sunlight and mist the foliage for humidity. This promotes a smooth transition and healthy growth for cedar of lebanon, which has an extensive root system and is a slow-growing conifer.

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