Cedars are a group of trees many Americans may think they know well, but do they? The answer is complicated. In fact, most trees referred to as cedars in North America are actually members of Cupressaceae, and could perhaps more accurately be referred to as cypresses. True cedars are not native to the Americas, and belong to Pinaceae with the pines. That said, since there's no authority on plant common names, it can't really be said that we are using the word incorrectly--it's just that it's rather confusing now that we've imported old-world cedars to plant alongside our incense-cedars, redcedars and all the other members of the already confusing Cupressaceae.
In any case, the alliance of Cedrus to the pines should be apparent to any careful observer. They have round needles that occur in bunches, much like pines do. However, the needles are typically much shorter than in pines, and occur in much greater numbers to a bunch as compared to a pine. The cones somewhat resemble those of a fir, sitting upright on the branches and disintegrating into loose scales before falling off of the tree.
Cedars are generally large, long lived trees, pyramidal when young, but eventually reaching a distinct flat, layered appearance with age. Once learned, it is quite unmistakable, and due to their height, they can be spotted from afar almost anywhere in Sacramento. The iconic row of cedars planted in front of the Capitol building is a magnificent sight to behold. Over 150 years old, among them are the largest of their species anywhere in California. Highly worth a visit for anyone who appreciates large trees, as are the rest of the Capitol grounds.
C. deodara, the deodar cedar of the Himalayas is our most commonly planted species. It grows moderately quickly and has an attractive blue-green color, long needles, and a characteristic droop to its branches. The Atlas cedar, C. atlantica can also be spotted regularly. Most cultivars of this species are a striking blue color. It is said to be more drought tolerant, but also grow more slowly than the deodar cedar. Other species like C. libani and C. brevifolia can be seen in local arboretums but are not present in horticulture to a significant degree, though they are worth trialing.
Overall, cedars are a great choice for our area. Though they typically do best with moderate irrigation, they tolerate heat and drought much better than most conifers, can live up to 1000 years, and have a stately beauty that is hard to match. If you are looking for a large, pyramidal conifer to plant in Sacramento, these trees are likely your best option.
In any case, the alliance of Cedrus to the pines should be apparent to any careful observer. They have round needles that occur in bunches, much like pines do. However, the needles are typically much shorter than in pines, and occur in much greater numbers to a bunch as compared to a pine. The cones somewhat resemble those of a fir, sitting upright on the branches and disintegrating into loose scales before falling off of the tree.
Cedars are generally large, long lived trees, pyramidal when young, but eventually reaching a distinct flat, layered appearance with age. Once learned, it is quite unmistakable, and due to their height, they can be spotted from afar almost anywhere in Sacramento. The iconic row of cedars planted in front of the Capitol building is a magnificent sight to behold. Over 150 years old, among them are the largest of their species anywhere in California. Highly worth a visit for anyone who appreciates large trees, as are the rest of the Capitol grounds.
C. deodara, the deodar cedar of the Himalayas is our most commonly planted species. It grows moderately quickly and has an attractive blue-green color, long needles, and a characteristic droop to its branches. The Atlas cedar, C. atlantica can also be spotted regularly. Most cultivars of this species are a striking blue color. It is said to be more drought tolerant, but also grow more slowly than the deodar cedar. Other species like C. libani and C. brevifolia can be seen in local arboretums but are not present in horticulture to a significant degree, though they are worth trialing.
Overall, cedars are a great choice for our area. Though they typically do best with moderate irrigation, they tolerate heat and drought much better than most conifers, can live up to 1000 years, and have a stately beauty that is hard to match. If you are looking for a large, pyramidal conifer to plant in Sacramento, these trees are likely your best option.