Cedar Trees

About

What are Cedar Trees? Cedars are evergreen trees belonging to the pine family. Originating from the Himalayas and Mediterranean region, they're able to be grown across many parts of the U.S. Known for their fragrant, durable wood that’s often used to construct various items like furniture, decks and fencing, cedar trees are prized for many reasons and make a great addition to the landscape. How to Identify Cedar Trees With attractive foliage comprised of scaly, fern-like needles that are densely packed, cedar trees create year-round ornamental appeal and thick coverage. And the colors of the leaves can vary from light to dark green, while some species have blue-green coloring. What’s more is that the needles are covered in a thick layer of white wax which helps them to retain water, and the coloring of the foliage actually depends on the thickness of this wax. That’s not all that’s unique about cedar trees—their bark is typically dark gray or reddish brown with cracks or thick ridges, and it usually peels off in strips. All cedar trees also produce cones—these will vary from species to species and can help you identify the type of cedar tree you’re looking at. Plus, cedar trees have a strong, woodsy fragrance that adds extra allure. And although cedar trees are related to pine trees, a good way to differentiate them is by their needles. While cedar needles tend to be thicker and pointier, pine needles are softer and more flexible. Essentially, if the needles are longer and able to be bended easily, it’s probably a pine tree. Planting Uses All of these features along with sturdy branches, soil adaptability and flexibility for planting across many different climates, make cedars ideal for using as a natural privacy screen and creating dramatic height in the landscape. Create a lush border in your backyard or side yard for some solitude or a statement piece anywhere height and texture are needed. Cedars also make the perfect decoration piece used in wreaths or garlands