Cedrus deodara

Deodar Cedar
Pinaceae
Evergreen, Trees

CEDRUS

From the Atlas Mountains of North Africa, the eastern Mediterranean, and the Himalayas. These, the true cedars, are among the most widely grown conifers in Western gardens. Cedars bear needles in tufted clusters. Cone scales, like those of firs (Abies), fall from tree, leaving a spiky core behind. Male catkins produce prodigious amounts of pollen that may cover you with yellow dust on a windy day.

Plant in deep, well-drained soil. All species are deep rooted and drought tolerant once established. Some botanists contend that the several Mediterranean species are just geographic variants of a single species.

Cedrus deodara

Native to the Himalayas. Fast growing to 80 ft., with 40 ft. spread at ground level. Lower branches sweep down to ground, then upward. Upper branches openly spaced, graceful. Nodding tip identifies this tree in the skyline. Softer, lighter texture than other cedars.

Planted in small lawn, it soon overpowers area. You can control spread of tree by cutting new growth of side branches halfway back in late spring. This kind of pruning also makes tree denser.

Although deodars sold by nurseries are very similar in overall form, many variations occur within a group of seedlings  from scarecrowlike types to low, compact shrubs. Needles, to 2 in. long, may be green or have a blue, gray, or yellow cast.