Cedrus atlantica

Common Name: Atlas Cedar

Description:
The Atlas Cedar (Cedrus atlantica) is a striking evergreen conifer native to the Atlas Mountains of Morocco and Algeria. It is known for its strong, upright form and dense, blue-green to silvery needles, which grow in clusters along its branches. This slow-growing tree develops a broad, pyramidal shape when young, maturing into a spreading, open-crowned tree with age. It thrives in well-drained soil and full sun, making it well-suited to Melbourne’s temperate climate. Drought-tolerant once established, it is highly valued for its ornamental appeal, especially as a feature tree in large gardens, parks, and avenues. The Atlas Cedar is a long-lived and resilient species, resistant to most pests and diseases.

Form:

• Tree - Large

Mature Size:

• Height: 20–40 m
• Width: 10–15 m

Aspect:

• Full Sun

Flowering:

• Does not flower (produces cones instead)

Flower Colour:

• N/A (produces upright, barrel-shaped cones)

Key Attributes:

• Suitable for Large Gardens & Parks
• Drought Tolerant Once Established
• Disease Resistant
• Long-Lived
• Ornamental Foliage
• Suitable for Feature Planting

Toxicity:

• Not known to be toxic to humans or animals

Companion Plants:

• Other conifers such as Pinus, Cupressus, and Juniperus species
• Understorey plantings of drought-tolerant shrubs like Lavandula (Lavender) and Santolina