Cedrus libani

Cedar of Lebanon is a long-lived evergreen conifer whose broad, spreading crown and dark green to blue-green needles give it a strong architectural presence. Young trees are pyramidal; mature trees develop horizontal limbs and a broad, often flattened crown. Allow generous room for the eventual canopy. ## Landscape character The [North Carolina Extension profile](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/cedrus-libani/common-name/cedar-of-lebanon/) describes the species as native from Turkey to Lebanon and Cyprus, slow growing during its first two decades, and typically 40–60 feet tall by 30–50 feet wide. Short fragrant needles and upright cones add seasonal structure. The species suits a specimen planting, lawn, or public landscape, and can also provide screening when space is sufficient. ## Maintenance Plant in full sun and moist, freely draining soil; it tolerates a range of soil textures and pH when drainage is good. The extension profile describes the tree as low maintenance and says routine pruning is unnecessary. If a central leader is desired, selective formative pruning can be done in fall. Established trees can tolerate dry conditions, but newly planted specimens need regular moisture while roots establish. Transplant carefully because mature trees are difficult to move.