Cedar of Lebanon (Cedrus libani 'Sargentii')

Overview

Cedrus libani ‘Sargentii’, a distinctive cultivar of the iconic Cedar of Lebanon, offers gardeners a miniature, weeping form perfect for specialized garden spaces. This needled evergreen retains the classic appeal of Lebanon’s emblem but in a manageable size, particularly when left to sprawl naturally. It is valued because its pendulous branches create a striking, ground-hugging texture or, if staked, a unique skirted silhouette.

This slow-growing conifer requires diligent site selection to thrive, benefiting immensely from full sun exposure. While mature Cedar of Lebanon trees are majestic, the ‘Sargentii’ variant stays relatively low, making it an excellent choice where space is limited or intricate texture is desired near foundations or in rockeries.

Its dark green needles provide year-round visual interest, offering structure to the winter garden. Gardeners aiming for the prostrate habit should allow this cultivar to ramble, utilizing its spread to cover ground softly, contrasting nicely with upright landscape elements.

Fast Facts

• Plant Family: Pinaceae
• Plant Type: Needled evergreen
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 5-7
• Size at Maturity:
  • Height: 1-2 ft
  • Spread: 4-6 ft
• Bloom Time: Non-flowering
• Bloom Description: Non-flowering
• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Water Needs: Medium
• Maintenance Level: Medium

How to Grow

The best success for Cedrus libani ‘Sargentii’ begins with careful soil preparation and placement. Plant this conifer where it receives full sun, ensuring the location has deep, moist, but critically, very well-drained soil with an acidic pH. Intolerance for wet feet means avoiding overly heavy clay or poorly drained areas, as root rot remains a potential concern. Position it away from harsh winter winds, especially in the cooler reaches of Zone 5, as its winter hardiness is sometimes questionable there.

Watering should be consistent when establishing the tree; once mature, this Cedar of Lebanon clone demonstrates good drought tolerance. Avoid excessive fertilization, which can lead to weak, floppy growth unsuited for its naturally mounding habit. Pruning is usually minimal unless you are actively training the plant upward; otherwise, allow the weeping branches to trail naturally.

For those choosing to train their specimen, staking upright when young will encourage a pendulous form where branches cascade down like a skirt. If left untrained, the branches naturally trail along the ground, developing into a stunning ground cover effect that requires virtually no fall cleanup.

Landscape Uses

The dwarf, weeping nature of this Cedar of Lebanon cultivar opens up interesting possibilities in specialized landscape designs. Its small mature height (1-2 feet) combined with a wide spread (4-6 feet) makes it an ideal anchor for rock gardens, providing year-round evergreen contrast against stone or gravel mulch.

Consider planting Cedrus libani ‘Sargentii’ near foundational plantings where you need low, textural interest that won’t overwhelm the architecture. It pairs well with plants that appreciate excellent drainage and sharp winter interest, such as dwarf junipers, low-growing ornamental grasses, or heathers that share similar cultural needs. In Japanese-inspired gardens, the spreading habit offers a unique interpretation of mountainous terrain.

Standout Features

Noteworthy Characteristics

Cedrus libani, commonly called cedar of Lebanon, is an evergreen conifer that, with age, develops a massive trunk, a flattened top and broad spreading horizontal branching. It is native to mountainous areas of Lebanon, Syria and Turkey. Lower branches typically remain on the tree as it ages, often touching the ground. It is a slow-growing tree that may reach only 20’ tall in its first 20 years. Over time, cedar of Lebanon will typically grow to 40-60’ (infrequently to 120’ or more) tall. This tree is the national emblem of Lebanon. It appears in the center of the flag of Lebanon.Genus name is the Latin name for this plant.Specific epithet means of Mount Lebanon, Lebanon.‘Sargentii’ is a dwarf, prostrate or pendulous form (depending on training) that features weeping branches clad with dark green needles. Mature size depends upon whether plants are staked or allowed to grow prostrate. Untrained plants will typically mature to 2’ tall and spread to 4-6’ wide. ‘Sargentii’ was discovered growing at the Arnold Arboretum in 1919.

Tolerances

• Drought tolerant once established

Potential Problems

The good news for gardeners is that the ‘Sargentii’ cultivar generally suffers from no serious insect or disease problems when sited correctly. The primary cultural challenges relate to moisture and soil; root rot is a significant threat if soils remain waterlogged. Tip blight can occur sporadically. Gardeners located in climates where environmental conditions do not favor most conifers, such as regions with intense humidity or extremely hot summers outside its optimal zone, may find this Cedar of Lebanon struggles. Ensure vigilant attention to drainage during the initial establishment phase to mitigate these common risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hardiness zones is Cedar of Lebanon ‘Sargentii’ suitable for?

Cedrus libani ‘Sargentii’ is generally rated for USDA Hardiness Zones 5 through 7.

How large does Cedrus libani ‘Sargentii’ grow?

When left untrained, this cultivar typically matures to a height of 1 to 2 feet, spreading out to cover 4 to 6 feet in width.

What sun exposure does Cedar of Lebanon ‘Sargentii’ need?

This needled evergreen requires full sun to maintain its best dense habit and needle color.

When does Cedrus libani ‘Sargentii’ bloom?

As Pinaceae members, this plant is non-flowering; it produces cones rather than traditional flowers.

Conclusion

The dwarf, weeping habit of Cedrus libani ‘Sargentii’ offers fantastic textural contrast and year-round structure, making it a standout choice for specialized garden niches. If you have a well-drained, full-sun spot, this unique Cedar of Lebanon variant is highly rewarding. Always confirm your local USDA zone compatibility before planting to ensure the best long-term success for this exceptional conifer.

Companion Planting

When selecting companions for Cedrus libani ‘Sargentii’, focus on plants that share its preference for excellent drainage and full sun exposure. Avoid moisture-loving perennials near the root zone of this cedar, as it increases the risk of root rot. Consider pairing it with textural companions like creeping Thyme, low-growing Sedums, or dwarf varieties of Mugo Pine. In a rock garden setting, use light-colored gravel mulch to keep the base of the plant dry, further enhancing the drainage required by this Cedar of Lebanon cultivar.

Design Ideas

Because this plant can be trained to spread or weep, it offers flexible design opportunities. Use the prostrate form as a textural transition plant between manicured lawn areas and mixed perennial beds, softening hard edges. If staked upright, the weeping branch structure makes an excellent specimen plant in a formal parterre or container grouping where its silhouette can be fully appreciated. The dark green needles of Cedrus libani ‘Sargentii’ provide a necessary dark backdrop that allows brighter colored dwarf shrubs or perennials to really “pop” visually.