Deodar Cedar Cedrus deodara 'Silver Spring'
ABOUT
The Cedrus deodara 'Silver Spring', more commonly known as the 'Silver Spring' Deodar Cedar, is a visually striking evergreen conifer with a unique aesthetic. This plant is characterized by its gracefully weeping branches that lend it a soft, flowing appearance. Each branch is lined with needles that exhibit a striking silvery-white color at the tips, which contrast beautifully against the deeper green foliage further back, giving the tree a shimmering, frosty look that stands out in any landscape setting. The needles are arranged in clusters which emerge from the same point, creating a whorled pattern, a typical trait among Deodar Cedars. This particular cultivar has a more pronounced silvery hue compared to other Deodar Cedars, which is responsible for its name 'Silver Spring'. The needles are soft to the touch, which differentiates them from the prickly needles of some other conifer species. While young, 'Silver Spring' Deodar Cedar has a more upright and conical shape, it will gradually develop a more spreading habit with age, contributing to its elegant and stately presence. The bark is initially smooth and gray but becomes rougher and develops deep fissures as it matures. During the springtime, the 'Silver Spring' Deodar Cedar produces small, inconspicuous cones that start out green and gradually turn to brown as they mature and release their seeds. The overall visual effect of the 'Silver Spring' Deodar Cedar is one of tranquility and distinguished grace, making it a prized specimen for any garden designed to evoke a serene and picturesque environment.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Pinaceae
Synonyms
Himalayan Cedar, Deodar Cedar, Silver Spring Deodar Cedar
Common names
Cedrus deodara 'Silver Spring'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Cedrus deodara, commonly known as Deodar Cedar, is not typically considered toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingesting or coming into contact with this plant. Therefore, if there are any toxic components, they are either of very low toxicity or have not been identified as causing significant harm to humans.
To pets
Deodar Cedar is not commonly listed as a toxic plant to pets such as dogs and cats. There does not appear to be significant evidence of toxicity leading to pet poisoning from ingestion or contact with this cedar variety. Thus, although it is always prudent to prevent pets from consuming non-food plants, Deodar Cedar is not known to cause serious harm if ingested in small quantities.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Blue-green
Height
40-50 feet (12-15 meters)
Spread
20-30 feet (6-9 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Himalayas
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds visual interest to landscapes with its silver-tinted needles and pyramidal shape.
- Shade Provider: The dense foliage creates a cool area beneath it, offering a comfortable retreat on sunny days.
- Privacy Screen: Can be used as a living fence or screen to provide privacy from neighbors and block unsightly views.
- Habitat for Wildlife: Offers shelter and nesting sites for birds and other fauna.
- Erosion Control: The root system helps stabilize soil, preventing erosion on slopes and banks.
- Seasonal Interest: The tree has year-round foliage, maintaining its color and form across the seasons.
- Durable Wood: The wood is strong and resistant to rot, making it suitable for various construction purposes.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, with little need for watering or pruning.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: The oil extracted from Cedrus deodara, commonly known as Himalayan cedar, has been used to reduce inflammation.
- Antimicrobial: The essential oil from the Himalayan cedar has shown antimicrobial activity against various pathogens.
- Anxiolytic: It has been used in traditional medicine to help alleviate anxiety.
- Diuretic: Himalayan cedar has been used to promote urination and relieve water retention.
- Expectorant: It is said to aid in expelling phlegm from the respiratory tract.
- Antifungal: The extract of Himalayan cedar has been used to treat fungal infections.
- Antioxidant: Components of Cedrus deodara may possess antioxidant properties, helping to scavenge free radicals.
- Analgesic: The oil is sometimes used in traditional medicine to alleviate pain.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- In woodworking, Deodar cedar wood can be utilized for crafting intricate sculptures or decorative items due to its fine grain and high level of workability.
- The wood of Deodar cedar is often used to make storage chests, as it has a natural resistance to moths and is good for protecting woolens and delicate fabrics.
- In landscape architecture, Deodar cedar 'Silver Spring' can be grown as a living fence or privacy screen because of its dense foliage and tall growth habit.
- This tree can be planted to act as a windbreak or shelterbelt, providing protection for crops or smaller plants from strong winds.
- Deodar cedar sawdust and shavings can be repurposed as a natural mulch for garden beds, helping suppress weeds and retain soil moisture.
- As a subject for bonsai, the Deodar cedar 'Silver Spring' can be trained into miniature form, making it an artistic and meditative hobby for enthusiasts.
- The aromatic wood of Deodar cedar is sought after for creating fragrant closet liners or drawer sachets that impart a pleasant scent to clothing and linens.
- Due to its impressive stature and unique appearance, Deodar cedar can play a central role in theme gardens, such as Himalayan or Zen garden designs.
- The needles of Deodar cedar can be collected and used as stuffing for homemade traditional mattresses or cushions in some cultures.
- The large branches of Deodar cedar can be repurposed into rustic outdoor furniture such as benches or arbors, enhancing garden landscapes.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Cedrus deodara, commonly known as Deodar Cedar, is not typically used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Cedrus deodara, commonly known as Deodar Cedar, is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Divine Connection: Also known as Himalayan Cedar, this plant is often associated with divine or spiritual connection due to its native growth in the Himalayas which many cultures consider sacred.
- Eternal Growth: Cedars are evergreen, symbolizing eternal growth or immortality, a continual renewal of life.
- Strength and Resilience: The sturdy nature of the cedar tree is seen as a symbol of strength and resilience, capable of withstanding challenging environments.
- Purity: The 'Silver Spring' variety with its silvery hue may be linked to purity and cleanliness, rooting from the cedar's historical use in purification rituals.
- Protection: In many cultures, cedar has been used to ward off evil spirits; its wood and fragrance are believed to offer protection.
- Healing: Cedar has been used in traditional medicine, which symbolizes healing and well-being.
WaterThe Himalayan Cedar should be watered deeply but infrequently to mimic its natural environment. Typically, during the growing season, watering once a week is sufficient, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Mature trees may need less frequent watering. Provide 1 to 2 gallons of water for young trees each time you water. In hot, dry weather, you may need to water twice a week, while in cooler, wet weather, you might water less often. Adjust according to the weather and the soil moisture level, avoiding overwatering which can lead to root rot.
LightThe Himalayan Cedar thrives in full sun to partial shade. The best spot for this tree would be a location where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. An ideal placement would be an open area with plenty of space for it to grow without being shaded by other trees or structures.
TemperatureThe Himalayan Cedar is tolerant of a range of temperatures and can survive minimum temperatures down to about -20 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range for promoting healthy growth is between 40 degrees and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, but it is quite adaptable. Avoid excessively hot temperatures, as this can stress the tree, especially during its young stage.
PruningThe Himalayan Cedar benefits from pruning to maintain shape, remove dead or damaged branches, and promote healthy growth. Prune during the dormant season, generally late winter to early spring, before new growth begins. It doesn't require rigorous pruning every year, but occasional thinning can improve air circulation. Avoid heavy pruning as this can damage the tree; selectively cut back any overgrown branches.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Deodar Cedar is well-draining, sandy loam with a pH between 6 and 7.5. Amend the soil with organic matter to improve drainage and provide essential nutrients.
RepottingDeodar Cedar rarely requires repotting as it is usually planted directly in the ground. If grown in containers, repot every 2 to 3 years to prevent root-bound conditions.
Humidity & MistingDeodar Cedar thrives in average outdoor humidity levels. It is adaptable and does not require specific humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, cool temps, and good airflow for indoor Deodar Cedar.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-draining soil, and shield from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
7-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Himalayan Cedar 'Silver Spring' begins its life as a seed, which requires a period of cold stratification to germinate successfully. Once the seeds sprout, they grow into young saplings with a distinctive silver-tinted foliage that is characteristic of the 'Silver Spring' cultivar. As the sapling matures, it develops into a conical-shaped tree that can reach significant heights with a broad-spreading habit. Throughout its life, which can span several hundred years, it goes through cycles of growth, producing new shoots and leaves each spring and summer, and then becoming dormant in the fall and winter. The tree also undergoes reproductive maturity, developing male and female cones; the male cones release pollen, while the female cones, following pollination, bear the seeds that will disperse to give rise to new plants. The tree eventually enters a senescence phase where growth slows, and it may become more susceptible to pests and environmental stresses before eventually dying.
PropogationPropogation time
Late winter to early spring
The Himalayan cedar 'Silver Spring', typically propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings, is best done during the growing season, which is late spring to mid-summer. Taking a cutting of about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) in length, you should strip the lower third of needles to expose the nodes and dip the cut end in rooting hormone to increase the chances of successful root development. The cutting should then be placed in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring at least one node is buried beneath the soil surface. The pot should be kept in a bright, indirectly lit area and the soil should be consistently moist but not waterlogged, which may take several weeks to a few months. It's important that the rooting medium’s humidity is maintained and that the cutting is not disturbed during the rooting period to allow for proper root establishment.
