Deodar Cedar

Cedrus deodara

Native to:
Afghanistan, China, India, Nepal, Pakistan

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Taxonomy

Division:
Coniferophyta | - Conifers
Family:
Pinaceae
Genus:
Cedrus
Species:
Cedrus deodara
USDA Symbol:
CEDE2

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Tree
Height:
4500 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Large Fruit-tree Tortrix (Archips oporana), orange tortrix moth (Argyrotaenia citrana)

Reported Fauna Sightings

Hummingbirds: Anna's Hummingbird (Calypte anna)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
birds, small mammals
Deer Resistant:
Yes
Fragrant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rich, well-drained loamy soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to the Himalayas, prefers mountainous terrain

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days
Germination Time:
14–28 days
Notes:
Seeds germinate best at cool temperatures around 15-20°C. Fresh seed has higher viability.

The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI

ORGHPS Germination Guide: Sow @ 4C for 3 months, then place @ 20C for 3 months.

Source: Ontario Rock Garden & Hardy Plant Society