Blue Atlas Cedar

Blue Atlas Cedar (Cedrus atlantica 'Glauca')

Blue Atlas Cedar (Cedrus atlantica 'Glauca') is a bold evergreen conifer prized for its shimmering silver-blue needles and stately, pyramidal form. Native to the Atlas Mountains of North Africa, this cultivar brings striking year-round color and architectural presence to landscapes. Its strong central leader and tiered branching pattern give it a formal, commanding appearance, making it a popular choice for anchoring large garden spaces or lining long driveways.

Distinctive Features

This tree typically grows 40 to 60 feet tall with a spread of 25 to 40 feet. The stiff, densely packed needles grow in clusters along upward-reaching branches, producing a dramatic contrast against green surroundings. As it matures, its trunk and branching structure become increasingly picturesque, with age accentuating its sculptural character. Its powdery blue foliage holds color through every season, making it an impressive focal point in any setting.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Thrives in full sun with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils; intolerant of poorly drained or waterlogged sites.
• Water: Moderate water needs; water regularly during establishment, then infrequently once mature.
• Humidity: Tolerates a range of humidity levels with good air circulation.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 6�9; suitable for a wide range of temperate climates.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Commanding presence makes it ideal for lawn specimens or entryway accents.
• Windbreaks: Sturdy branching and evergreen density provide year-round screening from wind.
• Evergreen Backdrops: Offers a contrasting color to green conifers and flowering plants.
• Estate Plantings: Excellent for large properties or formal gardens where scale is needed.
• Dry Gardens: Well-suited for low-water landscapes after establishment.

Low Maintenance Care

Blue Atlas Cedar is relatively low maintenance once established. Pruning is rarely necessary, and its tolerance to heat and drought makes it a dependable choice in challenging conditions.

• Watering: Deep water during dry spells, especially in the first 2�3 years after planting.
• Pruning: Avoid heavy pruning; only remove dead or damaged wood in late winter or early spring.
• Fertilizing: Apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring if growth is weak.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Resistant to most pests; root rot can occur in saturated soils.
• Winter Care: No winter protection required in listed zones.

Why Choose Blue Atlas Cedar?

Few conifers deliver the year-round impact of Blue Atlas Cedar. With its striking foliage and formal structure, it�s a powerful addition to large landscapes and estate gardens.

• Exceptional Foliage Color: Vivid blue needles add brightness and contrast year-round.
• Majestic Growth Habit: Upright, pyramidal form commands attention in the landscape.
• Longevity: Long-lived and increasingly beautiful with age.
• Drought Tolerant: Adapts well to dry conditions once established.
• Versatile Design Appeal: Functions as a specimen, screen, or backdrop in formal and informal landscapes.

With bold color, architectural form, and long-lasting structure, Blue Atlas Cedar (Cedrus atlantica 'Glauca') is a reliable and impressive evergreen focal point.