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Deodar

Cedrus deodara

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Contents

Plant Profile

Flowering Months:
JAN  FEB  MAR  APR  MAY  JUN  JUL  AUG  SEP  OCT  NOV  DEC
Order:
Pinales
Family:
Pinaceae (Pine)
Type:
Evergreen tree
Life Cycle:
Perennial
Maximum Size:
60 metres tall
Habitats:
Gardens, mountains, woodland.

Flower:
֍
Green, no petals
 
Male and female flowers appear on the same tree. Male flowers are erect pale yellowish-green catkins, growing up to 5cm in length. Female cones are reddish-brown and egg-shaped, growing up to 13cm.
Fruit:
Brown, upright and ovoid cones, either solitary or in pairs, with several fan-shaped scales. Up to 12cm long, rounded at the top. Cones are bluish when young and turn reddish when ripe. A pair of winged seeds sit upon each scale.
Leaves:
Evergreen tree. Foliage is silvery blue. Needles are stiff and have sharp-pointed. The needles are arranged spirally in whorls.
Aroma:
Flowers are fragrant.
Other Names:
Deodar Cedar, Himalayan Ceder, True Cedar.
Frequency (UK):
Occasionally seen  

Other Information

Summary

Cedrus deodara, also known as Himalayan cedar or deodar cedar, is a species of evergreen tree in the pine family (Pinaceae). It is native to the western Himalayas in India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. The tree is characterized by its conical shape, pyramidal crown, and bluish-green needles. It can grow up to 100 feet (30 meters) tall and has a lifespan of several hundred years. Himalayan cedar is often used as an ornamental tree in parks and gardens, and its wood is valued for its durability and attractive grain. The tree is also used in traditional medicine and in the production of incense.

Blog

Deodar, Cedrus deodara: A Majestic Coniferous Tree

Deodar, also known as Cedrus deodara, is a magnificent coniferous tree that is native to the western Himalayas in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India. This tree is a popular ornamental species and is widely cultivated all over the world for its beauty and ornamental value. Deodar is a slow-growing tree, but it can reach a height of up to 200 feet when mature, making it one of the tallest trees in the world.

One of the most striking features of Deodar is its leaves. The leaves of this tree are needle-like and are blue-green in color, which makes it stand out from other conifers. Deodar also produces cones, which are large and woody, and are also an important ornamental feature of the tree. The bark of the tree is a reddish-brown color and is also a notable feature, as it is rough and fissured, giving the tree a rustic and natural appearance.

The Deodar tree has a very long lifespan, and it can live for up to 1500 years or more. This tree is also highly valued for its wood, which is strong, durable, and resistant to rot. The wood of Deodar is commonly used in construction, furniture making, and for carving.

In India, Deodar is considered a sacred tree and is used in Hindu temples and shrines. In Hindu mythology, Deodar is associated with Lord Shiva and is said to be his favorite tree. Deodar is also a popular ornamental tree in parks and gardens, where it is grown for its beauty and majestic appearance.

In terms of care and maintenance, Deodar is relatively low-maintenance and is relatively disease-resistant. However, the tree does require a lot of sunlight and well-drained soil to grow properly. Deodar is also susceptible to damage from cold winds, so it is important to plant it in a protected location.

Deodar, Cedrus deodara, is a magnificent and beautiful tree that is highly valued for its ornamental and cultural value. Whether you are planting a Deodar in your garden or admiring it in a park, this tree is sure to impress and inspire you with its beauty and grace.

In addition to its ornamental and cultural value, Deodar also has several ecological benefits. For one, it provides a habitat for a variety of wildlife, including birds, insects, and mammals. The tree also helps to improve air quality, as it releases oxygen into the atmosphere and acts as a natural air purifier.

Deodar also has medicinal properties, and the resin obtained from the tree has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The resin is said to have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, and it has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including respiratory problems and skin diseases.

If you are interested in planting Deodar in your own garden, it is important to choose the right location for the tree. Deodar prefers a sunny location with well-drained soil, and it should be protected from strong winds. When planting, it is also important to provide adequate space for the tree to grow, as Deodar can become quite large when mature.

Deodar is also a popular choice for bonsai enthusiasts, as its slow growth rate and distinctive appearance make it an ideal subject for bonsai cultivation. Bonsai Deodar trees are trained and pruned to maintain their small size, and they can be shaped into a variety of styles, including formal upright, slanting, and cascade.

In landscaping, Deodar is often used as a specimen tree or as a focal point in a garden or park. Its upright growth habit and striking appearance make it an ideal choice for a lawn or garden center, where it can be appreciated from all sides. Deodar also works well in a group planting, where it can be used to create a naturalistic or informal look.

When it comes to caring for your Deodar tree, it is important to provide regular watering and to mulch the soil around the tree to conserve moisture. Deodar is also a good candidate for fertilization, as it can benefit from an annual application of balanced fertilizer in the spring.

In terms of pests and diseases, Deodar is relatively resistant, but it can be susceptible to infestations of aphids and scale insects. Regular inspections and prompt treatment can help keep these pests under control. Deodar is also susceptible to damage from cold winds, so it is important to plant it in a protected location.

Deodar is a versatile and beautiful tree that can bring beauty and interest to any landscape. Whether you are planting a Deodar for its ornamental value, its ecological benefits, or for bonsai cultivation, this tree is sure to provide years of enjoyment and beauty.

In addition to its ornamental value, Deodar is also used in forestry and for the production of paper. The strong and durable wood of Deodar is ideal for the manufacture of paper and other products, and it is often used for this purpose in India, Pakistan, and other countries where the tree is found.

Deodar is also an important source of fuel and firewood in some regions. The wood is known for its high heat content, and it is often used for cooking and heating. In rural areas, Deodar is also used for construction, as the strong and durable wood is ideal for the building of houses and other structures.

Deodar is also a popular choice for landscaping, as its distinctive appearance and slow growth rate make it an ideal subject for topiary and other forms of garden art. In addition, the tree is often used in parks and public spaces, where its beauty and grandeur can be appreciated by all.

When it comes to planting Deodar, it is important to choose the right location for the tree. Deodar prefers a sunny location with well-drained soil, and it should be protected from strong winds. When planting, it is also important to provide adequate space for the tree to grow, as Deodar can become quite large when mature.

In conclusion, Deodar is a versatile and important tree that has a rich history and cultural significance, as well as several practical uses. Whether you are planting a Deodar for its ornamental value, its ecological benefits, or for its wood, this tree is sure to bring beauty and value to any landscape.


Distribution Map

Reproduced by kind permission of the BSBI.

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