Atlas Cedar
Cedrus atlantica · Atlantic CedarUSDA | Grow Zone
6-9Outdoors all year in zones 6 to 9. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 0°F.
- Light
- Full sun, 6-8 hours
- Water
- Deeply, every 2-3 weeks
- Humidity
- Moderate, adaptable
- Temperature
- 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 40-60 ft tall
- Pets
- Non-toxic to pets
The Atlas Cedar, or Cedrus atlantica, is a stunning evergreen tree native to the Atlas Mountains of Morocco. Known for its striking blue-green needles and majestic form, it adds beauty and structure to landscapes. Gardeners appreciate its moderate growth rate and adaptability, making it a popular choice for both gardens and parks.
Ask Vesper about Atlas Cedar
Ideal temperature
60-75°F is where it grows fastest. Below 0°F cold damage starts.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 40-60 ft tall
- Plant apart
- 240-360 in
- Frost
- Hardy: survives frost
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Atlas Cedar prefers well-drained soil and should be watered deeply but infrequently.
Water every 2-3 weeks during the growing season, allowing the top 2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings. In winter, reduce watering to once a month. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering may cause browning needle tips.
Light
This tree thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Ideal placement is in an open area where it can receive ample light without obstruction. It can tolerate partial shade but may not grow as vigorously.
Soil
Atlas Cedar prefers sandy loam or clay loam with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0.
The soil should be well-draining to prevent waterlogging. A recommended potting mix includes a combination of potting soil, sand, and perlite for optimal drainage.
Humidity
Atlas Cedar prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable.
To increase humidity, mist the foliage or place a humidity tray nearby. Signs of humidity stress include browning needle tips and leaf drop.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for Atlas Cedar is between 60-75°F (15-24°C).
It is hardy in USDA zones 6-9, tolerating cold down to 0°F (-18°C) and heat up to 100°F (38°C). During winter, protect young trees from extreme cold.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or similar.
Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season, and reduce or stop in the fall and winter. Signs of nutrient deficiency include yellowing needles and stunted growth.
Pruning
Prune Atlas Cedar in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Use sharp, clean pruning shears to remove dead or damaged branches, and thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation. Deadheading is not necessary for this tree.
Repotting
Repot Atlas Cedar every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Signs it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes or stunted growth. To repot, gently remove the plant from its pot, trim any damaged roots, and place it in fresh potting mix.
Propagation
Atlas Cedar can be propagated through seeds or cuttings.
For seed propagation, collect seeds in late summer, stratify them for 30 days, then sow in spring. For cuttings, take 6-inch stem cuttings in late spring, dip in rooting hormone, and plant in a well-draining mix. Keep the cuttings moist and in a warm location until roots develop.
When it's unhappy
Yellowing needles
Why it happens
This can be caused by over-watering or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Check soil moisture levels and adjust watering accordingly. Fertilize if nutrient deficiency is suspected.
Browning needle tips
Why it happens
Browning can occur due to under-watering or low humidity.
How to fix it
Ensure consistent watering and increase humidity if necessary.
Root rot
Why it happens
Root rot is typically caused by poor drainage or over-watering.
How to fix it
Improve drainage and reduce watering frequency. If severe, repot the plant in fresh soil.
Pests (e.g., spider mites)
Why it happens
Pests can infest the tree in dry conditions.
How to fix it
Increase humidity, and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.
Leaf drop
Why it happens
Leaf drop can be caused by stress from environmental changes or improper watering.
How to fix it
Maintain stable conditions and adjust watering practices.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, begin regular watering and fertilizing as new growth appears. Monitor for pests and prune any dead branches.
Summer
During summer, ensure consistent watering as the tree may require more moisture. Mulch around the base to retain soil moisture.
Fall
In fall, reduce watering as the tree prepares for dormancy. Stop fertilizing and prepare for winter by protecting young trees from frost.
Winter
In winter, water sparingly and ensure the tree is protected from extreme cold. Avoid placing it near heat sources that can dry it out.
Toxicity & Safety
Atlas Cedar is non-toxic to pets and children. However, ingestion of large amounts of any plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
Good to know
Why are my Atlas Cedar leaves turning yellow?
Yellowing leaves on an Atlas Cedar can indicate over-watering or a nutrient deficiency. Check the soil moisture and consider fertilizing if necessary.
How often should I water my Atlas Cedar?
Water your Atlas Cedar every 2-3 weeks during the growing season, allowing the top 2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings.
What type of soil is best for Atlas Cedar?
Atlas Cedar thrives in sandy loam or clay loam with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. Ensure the soil is well-draining to prevent root rot.
Can I grow Atlas Cedar indoors?
While Atlas Cedar can be grown indoors, it prefers full sun and ample space. Ensure it receives enough light and is in a well-draining pot.
What pests affect Atlas Cedar?
Common pests include spider mites and aphids. Regularly inspect your tree and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
How do I propagate Atlas Cedar?
Atlas Cedar can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. For seeds, stratify them before sowing. For cuttings, use stem cuttings in spring with rooting hormone.
When is the best time to prune Atlas Cedar?
The best time to prune Atlas Cedar is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This helps maintain its shape and health.
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