Atlas Cedar Cedrus atlantica 8 Seeds USA Company

Cedrus atlantica, commonly known as the Atlas cedar, is a species of cedar native to the Atlas Mountains of Morocco and Algeria. Here are some key characteristics and information about this tree:

Description

Height: Atlas cedars can grow to a height of 30 to 40 meters (98 to 131 feet).

Spread: Their canopy can spread to a width of 20 to 25 meters (65 to 82 feet).

Trunk: The trunk is typically straight with a circumference that can reach substantial dimensions in mature trees.

Bark: The bark is dark gray and fissured.

Leaves: The leaves are needle-like, about 1 to 2.5 cm long, and are arranged in dense clusters. They are typically a bluish-green color, although a popular variety, Cedrus atlantica 'Glauca', features striking silvery-blue needles.

Cones: The cones are barrel-shaped, 5 to 7 cm long, and take about two years to mature. They start out green and turn brown as they age.

Habitat and Distribution

Native Range: Atlas cedars are indigenous to the Atlas Mountains in Morocco and Algeria.

Cultivation: They are widely cultivated in temperate regions around the world, valued for their ornamental beauty and resilience.

Growing Conditions

Soil: They prefer well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.

Sunlight: Full sun is ideal for optimal growth.

Water: While young, they need regular watering, but once established, they are quite drought-tolerant.

Hardiness Zones: They are generally hardy in USDA zones 6-9.

Uses

Ornamental: Due to their striking appearance and evergreen foliage, Atlas cedars are popular in landscaping and as ornamental trees in large gardens and parks.

Wood: The wood of Atlas cedar is valued for its durability and aromatic qualities, though it is not as commonly used as some other cedar species.

Conservation

Threats: In their native range, Atlas cedars face threats from overgrazing, deforestation, and climate change.

Conservation Efforts: Efforts are being made to conserve these trees in their natural habitat through reforestation and protective legislation.

Atlas cedars are admired for their majestic appearance and adaptability, making them a prized addition to many landscapes around the world.

Growing Instructions for the Atlas Cedar

The seeds have a period of dormancy. They can be planted outdoors in the fall or winter for spring germination or they can be cold stratified to simulate winter conditions and to break their dormancy at any time of the year. The seeds need to be planted when received or stored in a refrigerator until they are planted. 1. Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours. 2. Put the seeds in a ziplock bag. 3. Put the bag in the refrigerator and leave it there for 2 weeks. 4. The seeds like moist, well-drained soil. Put some good quality potting compost in a container with drainage holes. 5. Sow the seeds on the soil. 6. Cover the seeds with a layer of soil. 7. Water the soil so that it is moist but not wet. Put the container in an area with light but not full sun. 8. When the seedlings are a few inches tall, they can be transplanted.

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