Species blue atlas cedar
Green-blue leaves on brown stems.

blue atlas cedar

Cedrus atlantica (Glauca Group) 'Glauca Pendula'

The blue atlas cedar is an amazing plant species. It’s a slow growing evergreen conifer with an unmistakable pendulous shape and a bright steel-blue foliage. Growing to an average of 10 metres tall with a spread of 4-6 metres wide, its flowing branches and foliage provide a unique aesthetic. It makes for a great feature tree or hedge and is very tolerant of air pollution. It takes well to pruning and when cared for properly can live for up to 80 years. Also deer resistant, it’s the perfect evergreen for garden beds, parks or large walkways.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Grafting Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

6 - 7

Flowers:

Non-flowering Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Cones:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

silver

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Moderate

watering

The blue atlas cedar needs consistent and regular watering. It should be watered every 7 to 10 days when the soil surface is beginning to feel dry. To test if the soil is dry, stick your finger into the soil up to the first joint. If the soil feels dry, it’s time to water. Avoid underwatering or overwatering; only add water when it is actually needed. If you overwater the blue atlas cedar, the soil can remain wet for too long, causing root rot.

sunlight

Blue atlas ceder (Cedrus atlantica 'Glauca Pendula') should receive about 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day. If it is planted in a location with partial shade then it should receive bright, indirect sunlight or dappled shade for the remainder of the day. Too much direct sunlight in hot climates may burn the foliage and cause it to become dry and brittle. If planted in a mostly sunny location, afternoon shade may be beneficial to prevent leaf scorch and sun damage.

pruning

Blue Atlas cedar should be pruned in late winter or early spring or late spring when the new growth begins. Prune off any dead or diseased stems and branches. Remove any branches that cross over other branches or rub against each other. Thinning out the interior of the tree can also help to allow better air circulation and light to reach every branch. A general rule for pruning is to remove no more than 1/3 of the total green foliage. Pruning more than this can shock the tree and lead to negative consequences. It is also important to use clean and sharp pruning tools to reduce the chance of any infection.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Blue Atlas cedar typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Blue Atlas cedar typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map