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Description
Cedrus Atlantica Glauca, also known as Atlas cedar or blue Atlas cedar, is a large evergreen tree that is native to the Atlas Mountains in Morocco and Algeria. It belongs to the Pinaceae family and can grow up to 40-60 feet tall and 20-40 feet wide. The tree has a pyramid-like shape with a straight trunk and a broad crown. Its branches are horizontally arranged and the leaves are needle-like, blue-green in color, and about 1 inch long. Cedrus Atlantica Glauca is known for its ornamental value and is often used in gardens and parks as a specimen tree.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Pinaceae |
| Genus | Cedrus |
Appearance
Cedrus Atlantica Glauca is a large tree with a pyramid-like shape and a broad crown. Its leaves are needle-like, blue-green in color, and about 1 inch long. The tree also produces cones that are about 3-4 inches long and have a bluish-purple tint when young. As the cones mature, they turn brown and release their seeds. Cedrus Atlantica Glauca has a distinctive silvery-blue foliage that makes it stand out in any landscape. The tree is often used as a specimen tree in gardens and parks.
Care Guide
Cedrus Atlantica Glauca requires regular care to maintain its health and beauty. Here are some tips on how to care for this tree:Water: Cedrus Atlantica Glauca requires regular watering, especially during the hot and dry summer months. Make sure to water the tree deeply, so that the water reaches the roots.Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a year in the spring using a slow-release fertilizer. This will provide the tree with the nutrients it needs to grow and thrive.Soil: Cedrus Atlantica Glauca prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Make sure the soil is not too dry or too wet, as this can cause root rot.Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Cedrus Atlantica Glauca is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cedrus Atlantica Glauca is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and aphids. To control these pests, use a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. The tree can also be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet.
Habitat
Cedrus Atlantica Glauca is native to the Atlas Mountains in Morocco and Algeria. It grows in mountainous regions at elevations of 4,900-8,200 feet. The tree prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate cold temperatures and drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cedrus Atlantica Glauca be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers, but it may not grow as large as it would in the ground.Q: How fast does Cedrus Atlantica Glauca grow?
A: It grows at a moderate rate, about 12-24 inches per year.Q: Is Cedrus Atlantica Glauca deer-resistant?
A: Yes, it is deer-resistant.Q: Can Cedrus Atlantica Glauca be used as a windbreak?
A: Yes, it can be used as a windbreak due to its dense foliage.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Cedrus Atlantica Glauca:
- Cedrus Deodara
- Cedrus Libani
- Cedrus Atlantica
- Pinus Strobus
- Picea Glauca
References
- “Cedrus Atlantica Glauca.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b356.
- “Cedrus Atlantica Glauca.” The Morton Arboretum, www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/blue-atlas-cedar.
- “Cedrus Atlantica Glauca.” North Carolina State University, https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/cedrus-atlantica-glauca.
