Cedar of lebanon (Cedrus libani)

Also known as: Turkish cedar

The Cedar of Lebanon (Cedrus libani) is an evergreen conifer that typically reaches a height of 12 to 21 meters (40 to 70 feet) when mature. Native to the mountains of Lebanon, this tree has earned the Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society. It is known for its slow growth rate, often only reaching about 6 meters (20 feet) in its first 20 years. For optimal growth, it requires full sunlight and prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Cedar of lebanon

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Height

40 m

Spread

12 m to 18 m

Leaf Color

Green Silver Blue Gray

Flower Size

8 cm to 15 cm

Flower Color

Purple Brown Lavender

Images of Cedar of lebanon

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.

Scientific Classification of Cedar of lebanon

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Conifers

Order

Pines and allies

Family

Pine

Genus

Cedars

Species

Cedar of lebanon

Planting and Growing of Cedar of lebanon

Care Difficulty

Hard

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

50-77℉

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 Cedar of lebanon?

Cedrus libani, known as the Cedar of Lebanon, requires watering to keep the soil moist but never waterlogged. Use about 500 milliliters of water per session. Ensure the water penetrates to the root level without pooling at the base. The balance between keeping the soil moist and avoiding standing water is key for optimal growth.

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Cedar of lebanon?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Cedrus libani thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Ideal lighting ensures robust growth and optimal health by facilitating proper photosynthesis.

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Cedar of lebanon?

Ideal Temperature: 50 ~ 77℉

The ideal temperature range for Cedrus libani is between 50°F and 77°F. This range ensures optimal growth by providing temperatures that support cellular functions and metabolic processes crucial for the tree’s development.

What Soil is Best for Cedar of lebanon?

Soil type: Loam, Calcareous soil, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Cedrus libani thrives in well-drained soil which ensures that excess water does not accumulate around the roots. This prevents root rot and allows the plant to access essential nutrients efficiently, promoting healthy growth and robust development. The soil should be rich in organic matter to support the growth of Cedrus libani, providing necessary nutrients that promote lush foliage and strong branches. Compost or well-rotted manure can be added to enrich the soil composition. The ideal soil texture for Cedrus libani is loamy, which ensures a good balance of moisture retention and drainage. This texture helps to maintain consistent soil aeration, further supporting healthy root system expansion. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Cedar of lebanon?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Cedrus libani, or the Cedar of Lebanon, requires careful attention to fertilizer amounts. Young saplings benefit from a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer applied at a rate of 200 ppm nitrogen. Mature trees might not require as frequent fertilization but should have their nutrient levels monitored.

How to Prune Cedar of lebanon?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by removing any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Next, thin out the center to improve air circulation. Cut at the branch collar to prevent damaging the trunk. Avoid excessive pruning to ensure that the tree maintains its natural shape and vigor. Pruning should be done during the late winter to early spring when the tree is still dormant. Avoid pruning in the heat of summer or late in the year when new growth might not have the chance to harden before cold weather sets in. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Cedar of lebanon plant?

Propagate Time: Spring,Early spring

Collect mature seeds from Cedrus libani cones in autumn. Dry them thoroughly to prevent mold, and store them in a cool, dry place until ready to plant in early spring.

Soak the seeds in water for 48 hours before planting to improve germination rates. Fill the seed trays with a mix of sand and peat, plant the seeds at a depth of 1 cm, and cover lightly with soil.

In early spring, choose appropriate rootstock and scion. Make a clean cut on both using a grafting knife. Align the cambium layers and bind the grafted area securely with tape. Ensure the area remains moist but not waterlogged.

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How to Repot Cedar of lebanon plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Repot Cedrus libani when you notice signs like roots growing out of drainage holes, or when the plant shows stunted growth. These signals indicate that the plant needs more space and fresh nutrients to thrive. The best time to repot is during the early growth phases.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one, with good drainage holes. This allows the roots to expand without being waterlogged. The material of the pot should also provide insulation to protect the roots from temperature fluctuations.

Opt for a well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix, which mimics the natural habitat of Cedrus libani. Such soil will support proper root aeration and prevent water buildup, ensuring a healthy plant growth environment.

Toxicity of Cedar of lebanon

Is Cedar of lebanon toxic to humans?

The Cedar of Lebanon presents a minor toxicity risk to humans, mainly through direct contact or unintentional ingestion. The entire plant is deemed toxic and can induce allergic responses. Upon contact, individuals may suffer from skin irritation or allergic dermatitis. If consumed, the plant may result in gastrointestinal distress, revealing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. The mild toxicity of the Cedar of Lebanon indicates that although symptoms can be unpleasant, they are usually not life-threatening. Caution should be exercised to prevent accidental ingestion, particularly by children who might be attracted to the plant's appealing appearance, and it is advisable to wear protective gloves when handling the plant to avert skin reactions.

Is Cedar of lebanon toxic to cat?

The Cedar of Lebanon presents a moderate toxicity risk to felines. Cats can become exposed through direct contact or accidental ingestion. All parts of this plant are toxic, indicating that even brief contact may result in poisoning. Following exposure to the Cedar of Lebanon, cats may show symptoms of discomfort or sickness. To safeguard their well-being, any suspicion of poisoning by this plant must be regarded as an urgent situation. Pet owners should swiftly obtain professional assistance at a veterinary clinic if they notice any changes in their cat's health after coming into contact with the plant.

Is Cedar of lebanon toxic to dog?

The cedar of Lebanon plant species is recognized as having a moderate toxicity level for dogs. Dogs may experience poisoning from the cedar of Lebanon through direct contact or inadvertent ingestion. When in contact with the entirety of the plant, which contains toxic properties, dogs may display a range of symptoms that signify poisoning. These symptoms can vary in severity, potentially leading to gastrointestinal disturbances, skin irritation, or even more serious systemic reactions. It is essential for dog owners to remain alert and to prevent their pets from interacting with or consuming any portion of the cedar of Lebanon. If there is a suspicion that a dog has been poisoned by this plant, it is vital to pursue immediate veterinary assistance to ensure the best possible health outcome for the animal.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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