Cedar of Lebanon
Cedrus libani · Coniferous Evergreen Softwood
Plant Family
Pinaceae
Tree Category
Ornamental Conifer / Heritage Shade Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Standard species
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 5 to 9; adaptable to Mediterranean climates and moderate temperate regions.
About This Tree
A magnificent, large evergreen conifer with a massive trunk and a flat-topped, spreading silhouette at maturity. It features wide-reaching, horizontal branches that often develop a tiered, 'plateau' appearance. In youth, it is more pyramidal.
Leaf Characteristics
Needle-like leaves, 1–1.5 inches long, arranged in tufted clusters (rosettes) of 20-35 on short shoots, or singly on long shoots. Color is dark green to glaucous blue-green.
Bark Characteristics
Bark is dark gray to brown; initially smooth, becoming deeply fissured, cracked, and scaly with age into rectangular plates.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to the mountains of the Mediterranean Basin (Lebanon, Syria, Turkey); widely planted in Sorrento and across Europe in historical gardens.
Growing Season
Year-round growth; produces male and female cones in late summer/autumn, with seeds maturing over two years. No dormancy period as it is evergreen.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun required. Prefers well-drained, acidic to slightly alkaline soil. Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant but thrives with moderate water.
Mature Size
Reaches 40–70 feet in height with a spread often wider than its height (up to 80 feet). Growth rate is slow to moderate; it can live for centuries (up to 1,000+ years).
Special Characteristics
Highly valued for its durable, aromatic timber historically used in shipbuilding. Significant cultural and religious importance, featuring on the flag of Lebanon. Resistant to many common pests.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides critical nesting sites for large birds due to its horizontal branches. Seed cones provide food for squirrels and birds. Offers dense year-round thermal cover for wildlife.
Notes
Sorrento