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Lebanon Cedar (Cedrus libani)

Cedar of Lebanon (Cedrus libani) is a majestic, long-lived coniferous evergreen tree native to the Eastern Mediterranean mountains. It is renowned for its broad, flat-top

Above information is sourced from Wikipedia

Sunlight

Full sun is essential for optimal growth.

Watering

Moderate, drought-tolerant once established.

Soil

Well-drained, loamy or sandy soil, tolerates various pH levels.

Temperature

Hardy, tolerates a wide range of temperatures.

Habitat

Outdoor

Fertilizer

Generally not required for mature trees.

Care Requirements

Light

Full sun is essential for optimal growth.

At least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.

Water

Moderate, drought-tolerant once established.

Young trees need regular watering.

Soil

Well-drained, loamy or sandy soil, tolerates various pH levels.

Temperature

Hardy, tolerates a wide range of temperatures.

Prefers cool to warm climates.

Habitat

Outdoor

Fertilizer

Generally not required for mature trees.

Optional for young trees in poor soil.

Plant Overview

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Category

Ornamental

Plant Place Type

Ground, Garden

Plant Environment

Outdoor

Lifespan

Perennials

Plant Height

20-40 m

Spread

10-20 m

Growth Rate

Medium

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf Color

Green, Blue-green

Leaf Type

Needle-like

Flower Size

2-5 cm

Optimal Sunlight Lux

50000

Image Gallery

Flowering & Fruiting Cycles

Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.

Northern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · AprPeak fruit · Oct
FloweringFruiting
02468JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecActivity intensityMonths510
Southern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · JulPeak fruit · Mar
FloweringFruiting
02468JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecActivity intensityMonths510
Synonyms
Abies cedrus (L.) J.St.-Hil.
Cedrus effusa (Salisb.) Voss
Larix cedrus (L.) Mill.
Picea cedrus (L.) Peterm.
Pinus cedrus L.
Taxonomy
  • kingdomPlantae
  • divisionTracheophyta
  • classPinopsida
  • orderPinales
  • familyPinaceae
  • genusCedrus
  • speciesCedrus libani
Toxicity

Toxic for humans

No

Rating: 0/5

Toxic for pets

No

Rating: 0/5

Edible

No

Not known to be toxic to humans or pets.

Additional Care Tips

Young Cedar of Lebanon trees need regular watering to establish a strong root system, typically once a week during dry periods. Mature trees are remarkably drought-tolerant and generally only require supplemental watering during prolonged dry spells or extreme heat. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.

Cedar of Lebanon trees naturally develop a beautiful, stately form, requiring minimal pruning. Focus primarily on removing any dead, diseased, or damaged branches to maintain tree health and safety. This is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Avoid heavy or extensive pruning, as it can disrupt the tree's natural shape and cause unnecessary stress.

Propagation is primarily done by seed, which requires stratification for successful germination. Cuttings are generally difficult to root. Grafting is also a common method for propagating specific cultivars, ensuring desired characteristics are maintained.

Repotting is not applicable for mature Cedar of Lebanon trees as they are large, long-lived landscape trees. Young saplings grown in containers should be repotted into larger containers as they grow, or ideally, planted directly into their permanent outdoor location when appropriately sized.

FAQs

How fast does a Cedar of Lebanon grow?

The Cedar of Lebanon has a medium growth rate, typically adding about 30-60 cm in height per year once established. Growth is slower in its early years and can vary based on environmental conditions.

What kind of soil does Cedar of Lebanon prefer?

This tree thrives in well-drained soil, including loamy, sandy, or gravelly types. It is adaptable to a range of soil pH levels, from acidic to alkaline, but good drainage is crucial to prevent root issues.

Is Cedar of Lebanon drought tolerant?

Yes, once established, mature Cedar of Lebanon trees are highly drought-tolerant. They are accustomed to dry summer conditions in their native Mediterranean habitat, requiring minimal supplemental watering.

Can Cedar of Lebanon be grown in a container?

While young saplings can be grown in large containers for a few years, the Cedar of Lebanon is a massive tree that will eventually outgrow any pot. It is best suited for planting directly in the ground in spacious landscapes.

What is the lifespan of a Cedar of Lebanon tree?

Cedar of Lebanon trees are exceptionally long-lived, with many specimens known to survive for hundreds of years. Some ancient trees in their native range are estimated to be over 2,000 years old.