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Cedrus atlantica

Accession Count: 4
Common Name: blue atlas cedar
Family Name: Pinaceae
Botanical Name: Cedrus atlantica
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Forma:
Cultivar:
Characteristics:

The atlas cedar has one inch long, needle-like leaves that are tufted into clusters. These leaves are silver-blue in color and stay on the tree year round, as the atlas cedar is a winter evergreen. Female cones of up to six centimeters grow in bunches of blue-green needles on the stems of the trees.  Male cones are slightly smaller. The blue-green needles that cover the tree survive year round. (10). 
Compound: Ced atl
Geographic Origin: North Africa
Ecozone Origin: Palearctic
Biome Origin:
Natural History: Cedrus atlantica was originally found in Northern Africa, in the region of the Atlas Mountains as referred to in its common name Blue Atlas Cedar.  Cedrus atlantica is one in a small handful of trees grown in the United States that is a representative of Africa.    The Cedrus atlantica was first brought to the United States in 1845 from Europe.  The tree is looked at as a true Cedar and is also sometimes called a Cedar of Lebanon. (1). 
Cultivation Notes: A Cedrus atlantica likes full sun but is able to grow in the shaded areas that have at least part-time access to the sun.  The tree grows all directions; up and down to side to side - it needs to have plenty of space when growing.  Though Cedrus atlantica grows better in open areas the trees should be planted in a place that is guarded from strong winds. When Cedrus atlantica plants are purchased, they should be carried in containers.  Cedrus atlantica does not do well when transplanted.  Well-draining, deep, loamy soil that is acidic to slightly alkaline is the soil that the Cedrus atlantica grows best in.  Cedrus atlantica can also grow in sandy or clay soils, but it would not work if the soil does not drain efficiently.  This plant does not like being soaked with water like other plants do.  Moist to dry would be a better description of the moisture preferences of a Cedrus atlantica.  Space for the plant to grow is crucial; if the space surrounding the plant is small then growth will be restricted.  To prevent the tree from growing along the ground, staking the tree would be advised. Pruning Cedrus atlantica might improve the tree’s structure but it also might detract from its ornamental beauty (7).   
Ethnobotany:
In the United States, Cedrus atlantica is used largely for landscaping purposes as an ornamental tree.  In its native habitat of northern Africa, the tree provides an income for African citizens who harvest the trees to produce essential oils and medicinal tars.  Laborers risk fines and steeper penalties from authorities for entering protected forests and illegally taking trees.

In the Atlas Mountains, in the African countries of Morocco and Algeria where Cedrus atlantica originated, it is necessary to consider whether it is more beneficial to leave the trees untouched as protection against soil erosion or to uproot them for economic benefit in the production of medicinal tars.  The medicinal tars are used as medicine for livestock, protecting the animals from intestinal parasites. Tars, ointments and shampoos made from Cedrus atlantica are used by humans to deal with problems of the hair and skin such as dandruff and exema.  The roots are the preferred part of Cedrus Atlantica used in the manufacture of medicinal tars. Using the roots totally destroys the trees, whereas when the branches are used, the tree has a chance to recover.  The medicinal tars are sometimes used as a disinfectant in potable water and can be used to repel potentially dangerous snakes and scorpions (9).

Oil from Cedrus atlantica can be used medicinally to dissolves warts. It has a soft but masculine, earthy, aroma and can be used as cologne.  Is used in aromatherapy for grounding and for creating an expansive energy.  It was used ceremonially by Native Americans to clear an area of negative energy (6). Cedrus atlantica is used in the production of essential oils.  The oils can be diffused in a room to help alleviate congestion and treat hayfever. The wood of Cedrus atlantica is strong, long lasting and can be used in furniture making and construction (3).

Species is a strong vertical and skyline tree for large spaces such as parks or large lawn. Available either as trained or untrained tree.
Height: 50 - 100 feet
Width: 20 - 50 feet
Growth Rate: Slow Growing
Grow Season: Spring
Flower Season: Spring
Color: Blue
Function: Shade
Spread: Non-spreading
Allergen: Non-allergenic
Invasive: Invasive
Toxicity: Benign
Hardy: Semi-hardy
Water Use: Moderate Water Use
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Cedrus atlantica