Cedrus libani / Cedro del Libano

Origin: Minor Asia

Botanical characteristics: It is a slow-growing evergreen conifer up to 30mt high. It is conical when young, with candleholder-shaped branches and a flat top when it is grown old. The dark brown-black bark cracks and flakes. It has 2 cm long dark green needles, gathered in clumps of 10-20 needles each. It is a monoecious plant. Male flowers release a large amount of pollen in November, female flowers become green-purple cones from 9 to 15 cm long, which are tapered.

Agronomic and environmental characteristics: It prefers rich and well-drained soils and tolerates drought.

Use: It is used as an ornamental plant in Europe but can be planted in parks and large gardens as a single exemplary. It is used typically in English historical gardens. It should not be pruned.