Cedrus atlantica aka Atlas Cedar

Taxonomy

Cedrus atlantica, also known as the Atlas cedar, is a large coniferous evergreen tree in the pine family Pinaceae. It is native to the Rif and Atlas Mountains of Morocco, including the Middle Atlas and High Atlas, as well as the Tell Atlas in Algeria. Some sources consider it a subspecies of Lebanon cedar, but the majority treat it as a distinct species. It can be found at elevations of 1300 to 2600 meters above sea level and is hardy to USDA Hardiness Zone 5 to 9. The Atlas cedar can grow up to 30 meters tall with a trunk diameter of up to 1.5 meters and a pyramidal crown when young. Its branchlets are pale yellow-brown and pubescent in the first year, turning dark gray thereafter. The leaves grow in apparent fascicles of 19-28, are dark green, linear, and quadrangular in cross-section, measuring 15-35 cm x 1 mm. The seed cones are tinged purple before fertilization and become pale brown at maturity, measuring 7 x 4 cm. While Atlas cedar is a relatively rare houseplant, it is easy to grow and requires regular watering to thrive. It prefers long-lasting, direct light and should be placed less than 1 foot from a window. Atlas cedar also prefers well-draining soil and does not require added fertilizers if repotted each time it doubles in size. Native to North and Central Morocco to North Algeria, this species is a beautiful addition to any plant collection.

Common names

Atlas Cedar, Atlantic Cedar

How to care for Atlas Cedar

Difficulty

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Atlas Cedar due to its easy-going nature.

Water

Atlas Cedar should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Atlas Cedar loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Atlas Cedar thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Atlas Cedar.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

The growth rate of Atlas Cedar is slow and it doesn't necessitate additional fertilizing. By changing the soil in its pot annually, the plant should be provided with adequate nutrition. It is crucial to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizers.

Growth-pattern

Atlas Cedar grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.

Region of origin

Atlas Cedar’s native range is N. Africa - Morocco and Algeria.


More info:
Wikipedia