Beacon Hill Cedar of Lebanon

Beacon Hill Cedar of Lebanon (Cedrus libani 'Beacon Hill')

Beacon Hill Cedar of Lebanon is a distinctive weeping selection with supple, short green needles on cascading branches that can be trained upright for height or allowed to meander into a sculptural mound. Its adaptable habit creates a dramatic focal point for lawns, courtyards, and terraces while retaining the classic character of Cedar of Lebanon.

Distinctive Features

Graceful, pendulous branching accepts staking to create a tall central leader or can be left to drape naturally for a flowing silhouette. Soft-textured needles and layered, sweeping arms provide four-season architecture with movement and depth.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun for best density and form.
• Soil: Well drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil; tolerates poorer soils once established.
• Water: Provide regular moisture during establishment; shows good drought tolerance later but performs best with steady watering.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 6 to 9.
• Mature Size: Size varies with training; often 8 to 12 ft tall and 6 to 10 ft wide in 10 years, taller with a staked leader over time.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Weeping form and trainable habit create a living sculpture in open spaces.
• Court yards and Terraces: Strong year-round structure complements stone and architectural elements.
• Specimen Near Water or Walls: Cascading branches echo reflections and soften hard edges.
• Small Estates and Gardens: Delivers presence without the footprint of standard cedars.
• Collector Plantings: Offers a refined, uncommon take on a historic species.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Deep, consistent watering the first 2 to 3 years; reduce frequency once roots are established.
• Pruning: Minimal; direct or stake a leader while young if vertical height is desired, and remove damaged or crossing wood.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring if growth seems weak.
• Mulching: Maintain a 2 to 3 inch mulch ring to conserve moisture and protect surface roots, keeping mulch off the trunk.
• Notes: Avoid chronically wet or compacted soils; provide wind exposure that is not extreme to protect pendant shoots from breakage.

Why Choose Beacon Hill Cedar of Lebanon?

• Trainable Architecture: Shape as a tall, formal specimen or a natural cascade to fit the site.
• Four-Season Presence: Evergreen needles and flowing branch lines read well year round.
• Drought Adaptability: Manages dry spells once established while appreciating periodic deep watering.
• Space Efficient Impact: Delivers Cedar of Lebanon character at a more manageable scale.
• Design Versatility: Pairs elegantly with stone, gravel, and contemporary plantings.

Stake early if vertical height is the goal, plant in full sun with sharp drainage, and maintain steady moisture during establishment for the strongest structure and color.