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Cedrus atlantica 'Glauca Pendula'
weeping blue Atlas cedar
Atlas Mountains of Morocco and Algeria (cultivar of garden origin)Learn more
Overview
A sculptural weeping evergreen conifer of variable size and form depending on training, combining intensely silver-blue to powder-blue needles with dramatically pendulous branches that cascade straight downward. Without staking, spreads as a low-growing ground cover 2–3 feet (60–90 cm) tall and 10–20 feet (3–6 m) or more wide over time. When staked to a desired height, develops a weeping specimen 8–15 feet (2.4–4.5 m) tall with cascading curtains of silver-blue foliage. Needles 0.75–1.5 inches (2–4 cm) long, intensely silver-blue to powder-blue, in dense clusters on drooping shoots. The final form is determined by how the young plant is staked and trained. Hardy in USDA zones 6–9.
Native Range
Cedrus atlantica is native to the Atlas Mountains of Morocco and Algeria in North Africa. Glauca Pendula is a cultivar of garden origin selected for both the intensified blue needle color of the Glauca group and a strongly pendulous habit.Suggested Uses
Used as a sculptural specimen in prominent garden locations where the dramatic weeping form can be fully appreciated. Highly effective near water features, on slopes, or as a standalone focal point. Each trained specimen develops a unique individual form. Requires adequate space for eventual horizontal spread. Not suitable as a screen or windbreak.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height2' - 15'
Width/Spread10' - 20'
Reaches mature size in approximately 12 years
Bloom Information
Produces pollen cones in fall (September–October). Barrel-shaped seed cones 2–3 inches (5–7.5 cm) long, erect on upper branches, requiring 2–3 years to mature and disintegrating on the tree. Not ornamentally grown for flowering.Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
Intensely silver-blue to powder-blue needles in dense clusters; more blue than any other commonly grown cedarGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Plant in full sun in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Stake young plants to the desired height during the first 3–5 years — the plant grows horizontally once the staked leader is released or bends. The final form is determined entirely by staking decisions made during establishment. Water regularly during establishment; drought tolerant once established. Adaptable to a range of well-drained soils. Allow adequate room for eventual horizontal spread.Pruning
Prune only to shape and train during the establishment period. Once the mature form is established, little pruning is needed. Remove dead branches in late winter as needed.Pruning Schedule
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F
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early spring