Species cedar of Lebanon
Green leaves with brown stems.

cedar of Lebanon

Cedrus libani 'Hedgehog'

Cedar of Lebanon (Cedrus libani 'Hedgehog') is a beautiful coniferous evergreen tree with stunning vivid colour foliage. Its foliage changes from light green to black-green as the season progresses, offering a soft contrast to harsh landscapes. The wood of the tree is highly resistant to rot and insects, making it an ideal choice for outdoor furniture, decks, and fences. It is also a suitable tree for topiary gardens and can be trimmed to create a unique hedge or topiary design. Its roots are strong and resistant to drought, and the tree itself is known to live for hundreds of years. With its vibrant colours and resilience, Cedar of Lebanon is truly an amazing and timeless species.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

6

Flowers:

Non-flowering Flowers In Summer

Sun:

Full sun

Soil:

Rocky , gravelly , dry

Cones:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Watering for a Cedar of Lebanon is usually done once a week. First and foremost, the soil should be checked for dryness — the top 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) should feel completely dry before watering. If not, wait another few days. When watering, generously soak the soil until water runs out the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. Allow all the excess water to run out before placing the planter back on its saucer/drainage tray. Make sure the planter does not sit in water. Watering too frequently or too much can lead to root rot and overwatering. During the warmer months, the planter may need watered more often.  Additionally, water should be reduced during winter and spring months.

sunlight

Cedar of Lebanon (Cedrus libani 'Hedgehog') plants require plenty of direct sunlight to grow and flourish. However, the exact amount of sunlight and the timing of when these plants should receive direct sunlight will depend on the climate. Generally speaking, they do best when they receive 6-8 hours of full sunlight each day. In the northern hemisphere, this means that cedar of Lebanon plants should get direct sunlight in the morning and late afternoon, but should not be exposed to midday sun. However, if the climate is especially hot and sunny, the mid-day sun should be partially shaded. In the southern hemisphere, it is best to provide 6-8 hours of direct sunlight during the middle of the day, with mid to late afternoon shade.

pruning

Cedar of Lebanon (Cedrus Libani 'Hedgehog') should be pruned lightly and selectively during the offseason. Pruning should be started in late winter/early spring, with light pruning of any dead or diseased branches. Additionally, you may want to prune any branches that are crossing or growing inward to maintain the tree's overall shape. When pruning, be sure to make clean, tight cuts. More moderate pruning should be done in late spring or early summer to maintain desired shape and height. If needed, further pruning can be done in late summer or early autumn to further shape the tree. When possible, it is best to prune the tree in late autumn or early winter to encourage new growth for the following year.

Season

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

Cedrus libani 'Hedgehog' typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map