Calocedrus decurrens

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Incense Cedar

 
California Native Plant
Plant photo of: Calocedrus decurrens
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Information by: Jerry Sortomme        Photographer: Normans/Sortomme

 

Description

The cedar is an attractive, stiff, narrow evergreen tree which has a columnar growing pattern and maintains a central leader. The foliage is comprised of scale needles, while the coarse bark has an attractive cinnamon red-brown coloring. The cedar typically retains its color in winter. It serves as an effective screening. It will slowly grow to 30' tall and 15' wide. Small brown cones appear in summer. Foliage is aromatic when brushed. It has low watering needs once it's established.

 

  • Anatomy

  • Sun/Water

  • Design

Plant Type

Tree, Conifer

 

Height Range

25-40'

 

Flower Color

n/a

 

Flower Season

n/a

 

Leaf Color

Green, Blue Green, Dark Green

 

Bark Color

Brown, Red

 

Fruit Color

Brown, Red

 

Fruit Season

Summer

Sun

Full, Half

 

Water

Low, Extra in Summer

 

Growth Rate

Slow

 

Soil Type

Unparticular

 

Soil Condition

Well-drained

 

Soil pH

Acid, Neutral, Basic

 

Adverse Factors

n/a

Design Styles

Formal, Mediterranean, Ranch, Woodland

 

Accenting Features

Fragrance, Silhouette, Specimen, Unusual Foliage

 

Seasonal Interest

Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

 

Location Uses

Background, Lawn, Park

 

Special Uses

Hedge, Screen, Wind Break

 

Attracts Wildlife

Birds, Wildlife

Water Saving Tip:

Replace turf with groundcovers, trees, and shrubs. If you have areas where no one uses the grass, patches that do not grow well, or a turf area too small to water without runoff, consider replacing the turf with water-efficient landscaping.