Cedrela odorata thrives best in full sunlight, although it can also tolerate partial sun conditions. Ensuring that this plant receives adequate sun exposure is crucial for robust growth and vibrant foliage. Consider planting it in an area where it gets uninterrupted sunlight for several hours daily to mimic its natural habitat.

Spanish cedar (Cedrela odorata)

Also known as: Cigarbox cedar, British Guiana cedar, British Honduras cedar, Tabasco cedar, West Indian cedar

The Spanish cedar (Cedrela odorata) is a significant evergreen tree native to the tropical Americas, reaching heights of 37 to 46 meters. Renowned for its aromatic wood, which acts as a natural insect repellent, it is highly valued in the furniture industry, particularly for crafting wardrobes and chests.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Spanish cedar

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Height

10 m to 30 m

Spread

30 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

3 mm to 5 mm

Flower Color

Yellow Green

Images of Spanish cedar

Quickly Identify Spanish cedar

Cedrela odorata can be identified by its large, pinnate leaves with numerous leaflets, and its characteristic fragrant wood. The bark is greyish and may have a rough texture. During flowering, it produces small, yellowish-white to cream-colored flowers arranged in panicles.

Scientific Classification of Spanish cedar

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Sapindales

Family

Mahogany

Genus

Cedrela

Species

Spanish cedar

Planting and Growing of Spanish cedar

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-12 hours

Ideal Temperature

68-86℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Spanish cedar?

Cedrela odorata prefers to be watered deeply but infrequently. Aim to provide approximately 500 milliliters of water per session. Ensure the water penetrates deeply into the soil, allowing the roots to absorb moisture efficiently. The soil should be evenly moist, but not soggy; let excess water drain away to avoid waterlogging.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Spanish cedar? ›

What should I do if my Spanish cedar is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Spanish cedar? ›

How to save an overwatered Spanish cedar? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Spanish cedar?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6-8 hours daily

Cedrela odorata grows best under full or partial sun conditions. Receiving optimal light aids in efficient photosynthesis, crucial for vibrant foliage and strong branch development.

Best Light Type ›

Solution for Ideal Light ›

Benefits of Ideal Light ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Spanish cedar?

Ideal Temperature: 68 ~ 86℉

Cedrela odorata thrives in warm climates with the ideal temperature range being between 68 and 86°F. This range encourages optimal growth, ensuring the plant develops its foliage and overall structure robustly. Remaining within this temperature band is essential to minimize stress and prevent any growth inhibitions.

What Soil is Best for Spanish cedar?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Cedrela odorata thrives best in well-drained soils that prevent waterlogging. Proper drainage allows for optimal root growth and prevents root rot, promoting healthier and stronger trees. This plant prefers soils with moderate nutrient levels. Fertile soils with balanced nutrients ensure strong growth and vibrant foliage, supporting the plant's natural vigor. While it can tolerate some dry spells, Cedrela odorata benefits from consistent soil moisture. This helps the plant in maintaining lush growth, especially during dry seasons or hot climates.

How to Fertilize Spanish cedar?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Cedrela odorata, the recommended amount of fertilizer depends on the plant's size and health. Generally, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer at a concentration of 1000 ppm (parts per million) per application. Ensure to adjust the amount based on the plant's response to avoid both under and over-fertilization.

How to Prune Spanish cedar?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by identifying branches that are dead, damaged, or diseased. These branches can be a source of infection or inhibit healthy growth. Use clean cuts to remove the affected branches, cutting back to a healthy section of wood or to the branch collar of the trunk. Carefully trim to shape the canopy, ensuring that branches have enough space for air circulation and light penetration. Making canopy cuts where lateral branches split helps maintain the natural form of the Cedrela odorata and keeps it looking tidy. Focus on pruning to promote new growth by making cuts just above a healthy bud or side branch. This encourages the development of a balanced tree structure and helps fill in gaps for a fuller appearance. Aim to foster even growth throughout the tree’s crown. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Spanish cedar plant?

Propagate Time: Summer, Early Spring

Start by soaking the seeds in water for 24 hours to soften the seed coat and improve germination rates. This process helps in breaking the seed's dormancy and aids in faster sprouting.

Choose healthy, disease-free branches. Cut segments of about 10-15 cm using sharp pruners, ideally cutting just below a node to encourage rooting.

Prepare a mix of peat and perlite in equal parts to create a well-draining medium. The mixture should be moist but not waterlogged to promote root development.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Spanish cedar plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Cedrela odorata should be repotted when you notice roots are peeking out from the drainage holes, indicating the plant is root-bound. Another signal is when the plant's growth slows significantly, reflecting it's running out of room to expand. Repotting during warmer seasons ensures the plant has ample growing energy to recover swiftly.

Select a pot that is 2-3 inches larger in diameter than the current one. This size promotes healthy growth without overwhelming the roots with too much new space. Ensure the new pot has sufficient drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

Opt for a well-draining loamy soil mix. The right soil should retain some moisture but also allow excess water to escape freely. A well-balanced mix guards against root rot and supports necessary aeration for root health.