Blue atlas cedar (Cedrus atlantica (Glauca Group))

Overview

The Blue atlas cedar, scientifically known as Cedrus atlantica (Glauca Group), is a magnificent, slow-growing conifer highly valued for its dramatic, silvery-blue foliage. This tree is instantly recognizable, providing year-round structure and color contrast in the landscape, distinguishing it from many other evergreens. Mature specimens of Cedrus atlantica (Glauca Group) develop a broad, flat-topped canopy supported by gracefully spreading branches, creating a powerful focal point.

Native to the Atlas Mountains of North Africa, this tree is considered one of the “true cedars,” possessing the classic cedar fragrance and durable wood. While it requires significant space to reach its majestic potential, its striking coloration makes the investment in space worthwhile for gardeners seeking an imposing specimen tree. Its inherent drought tolerance is a significant plus once establishment is achieved.

Gardeners should select planting sites carefully due to the mature size potential of the Blue atlas cedar, aiming for full sun exposure to maximize the intensity of the blue coloration on the needles. Although hardy across several zones, specific attention to microclimate protection may be necessary in the cooler limits of its range to ensure optimal long-term health for this impressive conifer.

Fast Facts

• Plant Family: Pinaceae
• Plant Type: Needled evergreen
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 6-9
• Size at Maturity:
  • Height: 40-60 ft
  • Spread: 30-40 ft
• Bloom Time: Non-flowering
• Bloom Description: Non-flowering
• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Water Needs: Medium
• Maintenance Level: Medium

How to Grow

The best time to plant your Cedrus atlantica (Glauca Group) is typically in the spring or early fall, allowing the root system time to establish before seasonal extremes. This tree thrives in deep, well-drained, acidic loam but adapts well, provided drainage is excellent. Avoid heavy clay soils where standing water can settle, as root rot is a risk.

Watering needs are medium; provide regular moisture until the tree is fully established, usually requiring supplemental irrigation during prolonged dry periods for the first few years. Once established, the Blue atlas cedar exhibits good drought tolerance, though deep, infrequent watering is always preferred over shallow, frequent sprinkling. Fertilizing is rarely necessary for mature specimens planted in appropriate soil, but a balanced, slow-release fertilizer early in spring can benefit younger trees.

Pruning should be minimal, focusing only on removing dead, diseased, or damaged wood. Heavy snow loads in the winter can sometimes cause branch breakage; clear heavy, wet snow gently using upward strokes to avoid stressing the limbs of your Atlas cedar. Be aware that while generally hardy, in the upper limits of Zones 6-9, particularly in the colder parts of Zone 6, planting in a protected location that shields it from harsh winter winds will increase its success rate.

Landscape Uses

The principal recommendation for the stunning Blue atlas cedar is as a specimen plant. Its unique blue hue and architectural habit demand a prominent location where it will not be overshadowed by adjacent structures or plant material. Plant it where its form can mature unhindered, perhaps in a large lawn area or a spacious courtyard setting.

This conifer acts as an excellent year-round anchor in large-scale landscape designs. Use it to provide strong vertical and textural contrast against finer-textured deciduous shrubs or broadleaf evergreens that lack blue undertones. Although massive when mature, the young Cedrus atlantica (Glauca Group) can anchor a transitional border, softening the entry to an estate or large woodland edge.

Standout Features

Noteworthy Characteristics

Cedrus atlantica, commonly called Atlas cedar, is an evergreen conifer native to the Atlas Mountains in northern Africa. Mature specimens can reach 40-60’ (less frequently to 120’) tall. It is one of the true cedars. Its habit is usually loose pyramidal when young, becoming more flat-topped with long spreading branches as it ages. Downy young shoots. The 1” long needles are curved toward the tip and held in tufted clusters. The female cones are ovoid to cylindrical in shape and can reach up to 3” long. Seed raised specimens vary in foliage color from green to silver-blue.Genus name is the Latin name for this plant.Specific epithet means from the Atlas Mountains in North Africa.Cultivars in the Glauca Group are characterized by the blueish grey to blueish green color of their needles and are commonly called blue atlas cedars. Synonymous with C. Atlantica ‘Glauca’ and C. Atlantica f. Glauca.

Tolerances

• Drought

Potential Problems

This tree generally enjoys a clean bill of health, reporting no serious insect or disease problems under ideal growing conditions. While generally robust, tip blight may sometimes occur, leading to browning at the ends of branches, particularly in humid conditions that favor fungal growth. Gardeners must ensure excellent air circulation around the tree to mitigate moisture-related issues. A significant consideration for the Blue atlas cedar in snowy climates is the potential for heavy snow accumulation in winter, which can cause significant branch breakage due to the weight of the snow pressing down on the spreading limbs. Pruning out minor affected tips promptly and avoiding overly dense planting are good cultural practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hardiness zones is Blue atlas cedar suitable for?

The Blue atlas cedar, Cedrus atlantica (Glauca Group), is suitable for USDA Hardiness Zones 6 through 9.

How large does Blue atlas cedar grow?

This species typically reaches a mature height between 40 to 60 feet tall with a spread ranging from 30 to 40 feet wide.

What sun exposure does Cedrus atlantica (Glauca Group) need?

For the best blue coloration and overall health, Cedrus atlantica (Glauca Group) requires full sun exposure throughout the day.

When does Blue atlas cedar bloom?

This is a needled evergreen and is classified as non-flowering in the conventional sense; it produces cones rather than true flowers.

Conclusion

The remarkable color and stately, spreading form of the Cedrus atlantica (Glauca Group) make it a superlative choice for any large-scale landscape needing powerful year-round interest. As one of the true cedars, the Blue atlas cedar offers unmatched texture and resilience once established, particularly regarding dry conditions. Before planting, confirm your location falls within USDA Zones 6-9 and ensure you have ample space for this imposing beauty to mature.

Design Ideas for Blue Atlas Cedar

Due to its towering potential and intense color, the Blue atlas cedar should be intentionally placed to maximize its visual impact. Consider planting it on a slight rise or berm where its base remains visible, allowing the graceful, spreading lower branches to be appreciated fully. In contemporary landscapes, a single, dramatically lit specimen can serve as the sole focal point against neutral stone or dark-colored structural elements.

When pairing this tree, select companions with contrasting foliage texture and color. Darker green, finer-textured evergreens, such as yews or hemlocks, provide an excellent dark backdrop that helps the silvery-blue needles of the Cedrus atlantica (Glauca Group) truly pop. Since it prefers acidic soil, grouping it with other acid-lovers like rhododendrons or azaleas (in slightly shaded understory areas) can simplify soil remediation efforts for the overall planting pocket.

Companion Planting Considerations

When planning the immediate vicinity of your Blue atlas cedar, remember that its sun requirements are high, and its established roots prefer not to compete with aggressive, shallow-rooted perennials needing constant moisture. Focus on low-maintenance, drought-tolerant shrubs and perennials that thrive in similar full-sun, well-drained environments once the main tree is established. Hardy ornamental grasses make excellent, low-competition companions that reinforce the architectural feel of the cedar.

Companion planting near a dominant tree also involves respecting its eventual canopy spread. Allow a significant perimeter around the base of the Cedrus atlantica (Glauca Group) where grass is excluded, allowing the soil structure to remain undisturbed near the trunk flare. This practice supports better root health and minimizes competition for medium water needs.