Calocedrus decurrens (California incense cedar)

Calocedrus decurrens Photo/Illustration: Mark Soarea



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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Calocedrus decurrens kal-oh-SED-rus day-KUR-enz Common Name: California incense cedar Synonyms: Heyderia decurrens, Libocedrus decurrens Genus: Calocedrus
This large, conical-shaped tree has dark green flattened sprays of evergreen scale-like leaves.
Noteworthy characteristics: Notable for its aromatic, scale-like leaves that form pendulous branches that droop in sprays, ornamented by miniature, urn-shaped cones. It also has exfoliating cinnamon-colored bark.
Care: Plant in sun or part shade in just about any well-drained soil. Once established, incense cedar needs very little water, thrives in poor soils, and doesn't need fertilizer.
Propagation: Start seeds in a cold frame in spring or take semi-ripe cuttings in late summer.
Problems: Sometimes bothered by rust.
Height Over 30 ft.
Spread 15 ft. to 30 ft.
Growth Pace Slow Grower
Light Full Sun to Part Shade
Moisture Dry to Medium
Maintenance Low
Tolerance Drought Tolerant
Characteristics Attracts Butterflies; Fragrant Foliage; Interesting Bark; Native; Showy Foliage
Foliage Color Evergreen
Uses Hedge, Screening
Seasonal Interest Winter Interest, Spring Interest, Summer Interest, Fall Interest
Type Trees

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