Cedrus atlantica aka Atlas Cedar

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.