Complete Gardening
Cedar plants are renowned for their aromatic appeal and aesthetic beauty. Whether you have a sprawling garden or a cozy balcony, these cedar varieties offer both visual delight and an inviting scent, all with minimal upkeep.
Here’s a look at 12 cedar plants that promise to enhance your space while keeping your gardening chores to a minimum.
1. Eastern Red Cedar
The Eastern Red Cedar, known for its distinctive fragrance, is both hardy and attractive. Thriving in various climates, it grows well in sandy soils and requires little water once established. Its dense foliage provides excellent privacy, making it ideal for hedges.
The tree’s natural oils release a woody scent that deters pests while inviting birds to nest within its branches. With minimal pruning required, it maintains an elegant shape.
Its adaptability to different soil types ensures it remains vibrant throughout the year. This cedar’s resilience and sweet aroma make it a favorite among gardeners.
2. Western Red Cedar
Western Red Cedar is a majestic tree, celebrated for its warm fragrance and towering presence. It flourishes in moist, well-drained soils, offering a fragrant retreat in your backyard.
Its feathery foliage and arching branches create a natural canopy, perfect for shade. As the wind rustles through its leaves, the cedar releases a calming scent reminiscent of the forest.
Little maintenance is required, save for occasional trimming to maintain its shape. This tree’s aromatic oils are natural insect repellents, ensuring a peaceful garden experience. Western Red Cedar remains a beloved choice for serene landscapes.
3. Alaska Yellow Cedar
Renowned for its unique color and scent, Alaska Yellow Cedar is a standout in any garden. Its yellow-tinted foliage emits a spicy, pleasant aroma that’s both invigorating and soothing.
This cedar thrives in cooler climates and withstands heavy snow, making it perfect for northern regions. Its slow growth ensures minimal pruning, while its natural oils protect it from pests.
The tree’s striking appearance, combined with its resilience, offers year-round beauty. Ideal for those seeking a distinctive addition to their landscape, Alaska Yellow Cedar requires little attention while delivering maximum impact.
4. Lebanon Cedar
Lebanon Cedar carries a rich history and a majestic presence. This evergreen is known for its broad, spreading canopy and aromatic wood. It thrives in well-drained soils and sunny locations, offering a regal addition to larger gardens.
Its needles exude a soft, woody fragrance, creating an inviting atmosphere. Minimal pruning is needed to maintain its natural grandeur. As it matures, its silhouette becomes increasingly picturesque.
Suitable for expansive spaces, the Lebanon Cedar is a testament to enduring beauty and easy care. Its timeless appeal continues to captivate gardeners and landscape architects alike.
5. Deodar Cedar
The Deodar Cedar, with its graceful, drooping branches, adds elegance to any landscape. Its aromatic needles release a fresh, woody scent that invigorates the senses. Well-suited to temperate climates, it requires minimal watering once established.
This cedar’s natural resistance to pests and diseases makes it a low-maintenance choice for gardeners seeking beauty and ease. Its towering form provides excellent shade, while its flexible branches sway gently in the breeze.
Ideal for large open spaces, the Deodar Cedar promises both visual splendor and an aromatic garden retreat.
6. Atlas Cedar
Atlas Cedar is a striking tree, noted for its silvery-blue needles and robust fragrance. It adapts well to various environments, from urban areas to expansive gardens. This cedar is drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for arid regions.
Its spreading branches form a commanding presence, while the cedar’s oils offer a natural, pleasant scent. With minimal pruning, it retains its shape effortlessly.
Atlas Cedar’s unique coloration and aromatic foliage make it a favorite among those seeking an eye-catching yet easy-to-care-for tree. Its beauty and fragrance create a tranquil garden atmosphere.
7. Cyprus Cedar
Celebrated for its lush foliage and sweet aroma, Cyprus Cedar is a delightful addition to any garden. It thrives in sunny, well-drained areas, requiring little care once established. This cedar’s soft needles release a subtle, inviting fragrance when brushed.
Its natural shape seldom demands pruning, making it a convenient choice for busy gardeners. The Cyprus Cedar’s evergreen beauty endures through the seasons, offering a consistent backdrop for garden landscapes.
Its aromatic presence and minimal maintenance requirements make it an ideal choice for those seeking a hassle-free yet fragrant garden companion.
8. Himalayan Cedar
Himalayan Cedar, known for its towering height and enchanting scent, is a true marvel. It thrives in well-drained soils and sunny locations, making it suitable for diverse landscapes.
Its needles offer a fresh, woody aroma that complements any garden setting. Minimal maintenance is needed, as its natural oils deter pests and diseases. This cedar’s majestic form provides excellent shade, while its graceful branches add architectural interest.
Ideal for large spaces, the Himalayan Cedar offers year-round beauty with minimal effort. Its captivating scent and stately appearance make it a cherished addition to gardens.
9. Japanese Cedar
Japanese Cedar is a popular choice for creating tranquil garden spaces. Its fine, feathery foliage releases a gentle, woody scent that soothes the soul. Well-suited to moist, fertile soils, it requires minimal care to maintain its lush appearance.
This cedar’s natural grace and delicate texture add elegance to any garden. Its evergreen nature ensures year-round interest, while the scent enhances the garden’s ambiance.
With little pruning necessary, Japanese Cedar offers both beauty and relaxation. Perfect for zen gardens and serene landscapes, it remains a favorite among those seeking peace and tranquility.
10. Port Orford Cedar
Port Orford Cedar is admired for its vibrant green needles and delightful fragrance. It thrives in moist, well-drained soils, making it ideal for gardens near water features. This cedar’s compact form requires little pruning, ensuring easy upkeep.
Its aromatic oils provide a natural insect deterrent, creating a serene outdoor environment. The cedar’s graceful branches and bright foliage offer visual appeal throughout the seasons.
Perfect for those seeking a low-maintenance yet fragrant garden companion, Port Orford Cedar adds charm and freshness to any landscape. Its enduring beauty and scent make it a cherished choice.
11. Spanish Cedar
Spanish Cedar, though not a true cedar, captivates with its spicy scent and elegant form. It thrives in sunny, well-drained locations, offering a robust presence in any garden.
Its reddish bark and glossy leaves create visual interest, while the cedar’s natural oils release a pleasant aroma that wards off pests. Minimal maintenance is required, with occasional pruning to maintain its shape.
Ideal for those seeking both beauty and functionality, Spanish Cedar adds a unique charm to landscapes. Its fragrant presence and easy care make it a delightful addition to gardens.
12. Incense Cedar
Incense Cedar is famed for its towering stature and distinctive fragrance. It grows well in dry, sandy soils, requiring little water once established. This cedar’s aromatic wood releases a warm, inviting scent that enhances garden spaces.
Its natural resistance to pests ensures minimal maintenance, while its tall, slender form provides elegant shade. Perfect for large landscapes, Incense Cedar offers both beauty and practicality.
Its resilience and spicy aroma make it a beloved choice for those seeking an impressive yet low-maintenance tree. This cedar’s enduring charm contributes to its timeless appeal.