Cedrus libani
The majestic cedar of Lebanon is native to the Near East, including Turkey, Syria and of course Lebanon. It is very slow-growing but will eventually reach a great height (24m-30m), becoming an impressive feature in the landscape. It is also very long-lived, readily reaching 200-300 years.
This species is listed as "vulnerable" by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and recently scientists from the Royal Botanic Gardens of Edinburgh started a project in collaboration with the University of Beirut to raise seedlings of this iconic species.
What will it look like?
Illustrative example of a pot-grown tree of this variety as supplied.
(Approx. girth: 6/8).
Trees should reach their mature height after about 10 or more years.
Leaves may not be present during winter, and we may prune some shoots to fit the delivery carton. Size may vary during the season and between batches.
The container (if supplied) is only used for transporting the tree, which should then be planted out in the garden or in a much larger patio planter (not all species are suitable for patio planting).
How to grow
The cedar of Lebanon can be grown in most areas of the UK, but does best in warmer drier areas with good soils.
Cedrus libani characteristics
Growing
- Attractive features:
Attractive tree / plant
- Height 10 years:
5m-10m / 16ft-33ft
- Growth habit:
Upright-spreading
- Growth rate:
Slow
- Vigour:
Very vigorous
- Site conditions:
Coastal site Occasional drought
- Useful for:
Open spaces
- Hardiness rating (RHS):
H6 (to -20C)
- Pruning:
Do not prune
- Gardening skill:
Average
Identification
- Leaf colour:
Grey-green
- Annual cycle:
Evergreen
- Awards:
RHS Award of Garden Merit
- Bark:
Brown - light
Using
- Wildlife:
Attractive to birds
