Cedar of Lebanon
Cedrus libani
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Description
Cedar of Lebanon is a majestic evergreen conifer native to the mountains of the Eastern Mediterranean region, particularly Lebanon, Syria, and Turkey. It is renowned for its broad, spreading branches and dense, dark green foliage. The tree can grow up to 40 meters in height and live for over a thousand years, making it a symbol of longevity and resilience. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, Cedar of Lebanon serves as a keystone species, providing critical habitat and shelter for wildlife, thus enhancing biodiversity. Its deep root system makes it effective for erosion control and as a windbreak. Historically, its wood has been highly prized for construction and carpentry due to its durability and resistance to decay. In a food forest, it occupies the canopy layer, offering shade and microclimate regulation. It can be paired with understory plants like shade-tolerant shrubs and herbs that thrive in its microhabitat.
Growing Details
Cedar of Lebanon thrives in well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soils with full sun exposure. Before planting, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as lavender and rosemary can be grown nearby to enhance soil health and repel pests. Avoid planting in waterlogged areas to prevent root rot. Propagation is typically done through seeds, which require cold str
Tags
Keystone Specie
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Fire Wood
Building Wood
Scented Plant
Windbreak
Erosion Preventing
Visual Appeal
Oil
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Cedrus libani</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to the mountains of the Eastern Medite
applicable geo region: Eastern Mediterranean
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of September for 30 days
Harvest:
middle
of October for 365 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of October
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(0/5)
edible uses: Cedar of Lebanon does not have significant edible uses.
Medicinal Rating:
(2/5)
medicinal uses: The essential oils extracted from the wood have been used traditionally for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. These oils are commonly used in aromatherapy and for topical applications to soothe skin irritations. However, they should be used with caution as they can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
health concerns: The essential oil should be used with caution as it can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
other uses: The wood is highly prized for its aromatic qualities and resistance to decay, making it ideal for furniture, construction, and shipbuilding. It is also used for making incense.
Scientific Literature
Loading scientific articles about <strong>Cedrus libani</strong>...
Botanical data
specie: Cedrus libani
common names: Cedar of Lebanon; Lebanon Cedar; True Cedar
family: Pinaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Cedrus
Growing Conditions
area needed: 100.0 m
spacing: 10.0 m
growing difficulty: High
Deciduous / Evergreen:
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / -20ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: Low
hardness:
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(6/10)
first harvest: 0 years
life span: 1000 years
succession: Late
growth rate: Slow
max height: 40.0 m
max width: 12.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Monoecious
growth details: Cedar of Lebanon thrives in well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soils with full sun exposure. Before planting, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as lavender and rosemary can be grown nearby to enhance soil health and repel pests. Avoid planting in waterlogged areas to prevent root rot. Propagation is typically done through seeds, which require cold str
Potential Disturbances: Cedar of Lebanon is relatively pest-resistant but can be affected by aphids and scale insects. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Planting garlic or chives nearby can help repel pests. Ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot, and consider using neem oil as an organic spray for pest management.
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