Cedrus libani atlantica Pendula - Lebanese Cedar

Cedrus libani atlantica 'Pendula' is an unusual and beautiful form of Atlas Cedar, with a spreading and extremely weeping habit that adds to its charm. Slow-growing, this surprising conifer forms, after many years, a mass taller than wide, cascading in dark green with a slight silver tinge. Its growth, unlike that of the classic Atlas Cedar, is very moderate, making it easier to integrate into a smaller garden. It is an exceptional subject that can be planted in isolation or even at the edge of a body of water that will reflect its image in a grand display of romanticism.

Cedrus libani subsp. atlantica, better known as Atlas Cedar, Blue Cedar, or Silver Cedar, is considered to be a subspecies of the Cedar of Lebanon. It is a majestic conifer, originating from the Atlas mountain range that extends through Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. This imposing conifer reaches heights of 30 to 40m (99 to 131ft) in its natural habitat. It displays a tabular habit when fully grown, with a more slender silhouette than its cousin, the Cedar of Lebanon. This light species has excellent longevity. It stands out from other cedars with its upright branches and short, less prickly needles.

The 'Pendula' cultivar is distinguished by its strongly weeping habit, slower growth, and significantly reduced development. At maturity, it rarely exceeds 4m (13ft) high and 6m (20ft) in width. This tree forms a fairly short trunk, which divides near the base into large, slightly upright branches. The secondary branches are trailing, almost vertical. They bear foliage in fairly dark green needles with beautiful grey-silver reflections. "Flowering" occurs in early autumn. Each individual carries yellowish-red female cones, flattened at the top, measuring 5 to 7cm (2 to 3in) in length, and conical brown male catkins. The seeds take 3 years to ripen. They are nestled between the scales of the female cones and are equipped with a 2cm (1in) long wing.

The weeping Atlas cedar deserves a prominent place in the garden. Majestic but of reasonable stature, it can be planted as a standalone specimen on a lawn, prominently displayed to enjoy its beautiful silhouette. In a romantic garden, it can also be placed at the edge of a large body of water. In this case, it will play the same ornamental role as a weeping willow, while having much less soil requirements. Indeed, the Atlas cedar is not only very hardy, but also capable of growing in poor, rocky, and dry soils in summer. It also lends itself very well to bonsai cultivation.