Cedrus deodora

Deodar Cedar
Cedrus deodara
Type: Evergreen Tree
Exposure: Sun
Water: Regular

If you grew up on the west coast, this probably isn’t the tree that comes to mind when you hear “cedar.” The most common “cedar” tree around here, the wonderfully fragrant one that is so often used in the lumber industry, is actually the Western Red Cedar, and not even related to the Deodar. The Western red is part of the “Thuja” family and (in the botanical sense), not a true “cedar” at all.

The Deodar Cedar is a  fast growing, large evergreen, and is native to the Himalayas. Reaching 80ft (24m) tall with a 40ft (12m) spread in maturity, this graceful tree is characterized by a drooping tip, and a blue / gray cast to its new growth. The needles are fine and about 2in (5cm) long, making for a much softer-looking texture than other cedars. The lower branches droop downward to the ground before sweeping back up, while upper branches are much more openly spaced, with strongly drooping side branches. There are many varieties of this tree available, including dwarf and prostrate varieties, as well as some with cream- or gold- colored new growth.

Cheers,

John