Dwarf Atlas Cedar

‘Sapphire Nymph’ is an exceptionally slow-growing, prostrate dwarf Atlas cedar. Its bright blue, short silvery-blue needles and cream-white new growth give the low, spreading plant a distinctive color contrast. ## Form and size The American Conifer Society reports a ten-year size of about 10 inches tall by 30 inches wide and growth of roughly 1–3 inches per year. Its delicate stems spread outward, making it suited to a rock garden, raised edge, or carefully chosen container where the foliage can be viewed up close. ## Siting Provide full sun and well-drained soil. The Virginia Cooperative Extension guide gives Cedrus atlantica a species-level USDA range of zones 6–9; that general range does not establish the exact cultivar’s hardiness at the coldest edge. Keep the low branches clear of persistently wet ground. ## Maintenance Water regularly during establishment, then avoid saturated soil. Its very slow growth means little routine shaping is needed. Protect the delicate spreading stems from foot traffic and allow room for the plant to widen gradually.