The genus Cedrus - the Cedars
A genus of four closely related. species. Branches of two kinds : long terminal shoots bearing scattered leaves and shorter spur shoots which bear tufts of leaves in short whorls. The spur shoots are persistent. The cones require two years to ripen and the cone scales break off leaving a persistent axis as in the genus Abies.
(T)
Cedrus atlantica, Manetti
Atlas Cedar
Native of the Atlas Mountain region where it grows to a height of 120 feet. Somewhat similar in habit to the Cedar of Lebanon. Distinguished from this and the Deodar by the more erect shoots. It was introduced into this country about 1845 and has been much used as an ornamental tree, though it has not proved very useful for forestry purposes. There are several varieties of which var. glauca is much esteemed for gardens.
(R)
Cedrus deodara, Loudon
The Deodar, Indian Cedar
Native to the Western Himalayas where it attains a height of 280 feet. The upper portion of the main stem tends to bend over when young. The ends of the branches are pendulous giving the tree a very graceful appearance. It is less hardy than the Atlas Cedar and while many fine specimens are found in the more sheltered regions in this country it is not so successful in more exposed places. It was introduced into this country in 1831 and some of the original trees planted in Fife still stand.
(Bot.) Cedrus libani, Barrelier
Cedar of Lebanon.
Native to Mount Lebanon and Asia Minor where it attains a height of 100 feet. Very similar to Cedrus atlantica from which it is distinguished by only minor differences. Introduced into this country about 1670, it became popular for its sacred associations and because of its beauty as a specimen tree. The branches in older specimens tend to grow horizontally, giving it a characteristic appearance. It is fairly hardy.