While there are many faux cedar trees, like the Western red cedar, Eastern red cedar, Northern white cedar, and the Alaskan yellow cedar, there are only four real cedar trees worldwide. Learning about each real cedar tree may help you make the right choice for your landscaping.
Eastern Red Cedar Is the #1 Cedar Tree in the United States
The eastern red cedar tree is a hardy evergreen tree that grows wild in central North America. The Latin name of the eastern red cedar is Juniperus Virginiana. These cedar trees are used for Christmas trees, privacy hedges, and living fences in landscaping in drought areas where there is little rainfall. You can buy these trees online at Tennessee Wholesale Nursery, and they ship them fast to your house.
Atlas Cedar Tree
You would have to jump on a plane and head to the North African regions of Morocco or Algeria to see the Atlas cedar tree in its native region. There you would see extensive forests of these trees growing in mountainous areas, with many trees reaching about 115 feet tall.
If you live in a temperate climate in zones 6 to 9, the Atlas cedar tree may be the perfect choice for your landscaping because of its drought and heat tolerance. When used in landscaping, these trees often grow to be about 60 feet tall and have a 40-foot spread, so be sure you have enough room for this tree to grow. Do not expect this tree to reach its mature height for about five years; it requires regular watering until it stops growing. Most will form a coniferous form, but a few hybrids take on different shapes. An example is the Glauca Pendula, which grows about 10 feet tall with a weeping form. If you have room, you may want to consider using the Atlas cedar tree because its needles give off a natural oil that deters insects.
This cedar tree grows well in full sun or partial shade, and it is not too picky about the soil where you plant it if it drains well. Its bluish-green needles grow to be about 1.5-inches long. Male barrel-shaped pinecones that are about 2.5-inches in extended sit on this tree's lower branches while the female cones grow higher on the tree, and they have a purplish tint to them.
Deodar Cedar Trees
You would need to make a trek to the Himalayan Mountains to see deodar cedar trees in their natural habitat. People of the Hindu faith consider this tree sacred, and its name means "timber of the Gods" when translated. You would have to look way up to find the top of these trees on your trek, as they often grow to be over 160 feet tall.
This fast-growing cedar may be an excellent choice if you live in growing zones 7 to 11. This tree usually grows to be about 50 feet tall and has a 30-foot spread when used in landscaping. You may be surprised to learn that this tree is heartiest for people who live in hot and humid areas. It will thrive in almost any soil if you keep the ground moist. It needs the full sun to thrive, so consider how much light the area you want to plant it gets throughout the day. This tree will usually grow more than 36 inches in a single year, and it may live for more than 150 years.
This species will grow pyramidal. If you plan on planting it near sidewalks or paths, then prune off the lower branches. It produces sharp-tipped bluish-green or silvery needles that grow to be about 1.5-inches long each year. This tree will lose its needles from the previous year when it puts on new ones in the spring. It also produces reddish-brown, oval pines cones that are about 3-inches long.
Cedar of Lebanon
This tree is the national symbol of Lebanon, and its natural range stretches throughout the Eastern Mediterranean. It is estimated that this tree's native coverage has shrunk by 87%, and there are efforts to replant it underway. It can reach heights up to 130 feet tall in its native setting.
This tree usually grows to be about 80 feet tall when used as an ornamental in landscaping. It thrives in zones 5 to 9. Its spread will often be about 70 feet. It is an excellent choice for those living in areas where it is cold most of the winter because it tolerates cold weather exceptionally well.
The Cedar of Lebanon will have a pyramidal shape as a young tree. When it matures, however, it opens and has a flat top. This option has highly textured bark, so it is often chosen for inclusion in estate gardens. The oils in this tree give off a beautiful aroma. The needles on this tree are square-shaped and grow to be about 1.5-inches long.
Cones will not appear on it for at least 25 years. When they finally appear, male cones are about 1.5-inches long and mature from light green to light brown. Female cones are about the same size, and they mature to be grayish-brown in color when ripe. It takes approximately 18 months for each cone to develop.
Cyprian Cedar
Native to the Paphos, Tripylos, and Troodos mountain ranges in Cyprus, the Cyprian Cedar is the rarest of the four true cedars. A few are also found in Turkey and Syria. In its native setting, this tree will grow to be about 80 feet tall.
Homeowners in zones 5 to 8 can grow this option in their landscaping. When used in parks and yards, it usually grows to be about 50 feet tall. This tree looks like a miniature Cedar of Lebanon tree in many ways, except that it produces horizontal branches. This tree's needles appear in small clumps. They are yellowish-green needles, and they can be up to 0.75-inches long. The needles grow on short stems completely around each branch.
The male and the female pinecones on this tree are light brown and can be up to 4-inches long.
Planting cedar treescedar can be a beautiful addition to your property, community event spaces, and commercial areas. We make that easy by giving you discounts when you buy in bulk.
Planting Cedar
We use Cedar Elm when you want evergreen trees for privacy screening style with a tougher, shade-ready tree. Fast growth, low upkeep, and planting zones 4-9 make it practical.
If you're looking for a tree that keeps on giving after the holidays, consider a live potted cedar. TN nursery grows the Eastern Red Cedar in indoor sizes for room-use then you can replant it outdoors in your landscape when the ground thaws and warm weather returns. If the tree will stay indoors, don't keep it in the pot longer than 7-10 days. The warmth and dryness of a heated house breaks dormancy too soon, stressing the tree when it moves back outside. Water every two to three days, but not on the same schedule as the rotation for fresh cut birch. A root ball needs different care from a cut trunk.
Cedar Care and Watering
If using a fresh-cut tree, select one with flexible branches and needles that shed when a branch is stroked with the hand. Make sure it was cut reasonably recently so that the needles are still somewhat moist. Immediately upon bringing your tree home, cut the bottom of the trunk at an angle to remove one half inch (1.3 cm). Get the tree in the water within two hours. Cedar trees can drink a quart of water daily for the first week. Check water levels once per day . If the stand runs dry even once, the cut will seal over and the tree will no longer be able to draw water.
For the Eastern Cedar Tree (Juniperus virginiana) , it usually takes 20 to 30 years to reach full size. It depends on the type of soil, the amount of sunlight, and the amount of water in the earth.
After the first few weeks of growth, water deeply once or twice a week. Once the tree is established, it can handle dryness quite well. Put two inches of mulch around the base to keep the soil wet and stop weeds from growing.
Soil and Sunlight for Cedar
It grows about 13-24 inches yearly to a mature height of 40-50 feet. A mature tree may have a foliage spread of about 8-20 feet. It produces deep roots, which allow it to live in a wide variety of soil types, from moist and rich to clay or sandy with limestone. It is very tolerant of drought. The reddish-brown bark is fibrous and can be peeled off in strips. Its wood is reddish and aromatic.
The Australian Red Cedar is species of Red Cedar and is deciduous. They grow up to a height of 60 m, and the size of the trunk is approximately 3 m in diameter. This species is very durable and has a fine scent. They are commercially used for making furniture due to the durability of wood. The Australian Red Cedar has a rapid growth rate and has small white flowers on them. The Eastern Red Cedar or Juniperus Virginiana is also a perennial tree and remain green throughout the year. The leaves are green and scaly like the western red cedar. These trees grow up to a maximum height of 50 feet, and their growth rate is slow as well. Their active growth rate is during spring and summer time. It is adaptable to coarse and fine textured soil.
If you're comparing evergreen trees for privacy screening , here's the honest truth: Cedar Elm Tree for privacy and shade is not evergreen. But it is a strong pick when you want tall trees for privacy that handle heat, dry spells, and mixed soils in Zones 4-9. We use it where a broad summer canopy matters most, especially along lot lines and outdoor living areas.
The Eastern Red Cedar is a Juniper tree that grows in Hardiness Zones 2-9. That includes the eastern United States through the Plains and into Canada and Mexico. This evergreen pioneer tree does not lose its leaves and grows well in full sun conditions. Historically it was used for furniture, fences, Christmas trees, and pencils. It is often used as a windbreak in rural areas or as hedges in cities.
Cedar trees are legendary when you look at the facts and figures. You are most likely going to bump into a high altitude of 260 to 300 meters, a bed of well drained soil and full underwater skin. A unique appearance is guaranteed as you are going to see the needle-like leaves are spirally arranged along the branches. The wood is legendary for its rich and floral outdoor scent that is going to add a feel of festivity.
About Cedar
Our current listing shows custom shipping information for the Cedar Elm Tree as: Ships in November 2026. We ship all items by 3-4 day ground shipping once they go out. So the key timing point is the release month, not overnight transit. If you need help before ordering, reach us at customerservice@tennesseewholesalenursery.com.
Of course it grows in Tennessee, Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana) grows wild in fence rows and on hillsides in Zones 4-9, which is almost the whole of the Southeast and a really big chunk of the rest of the country. That abundance is exactly why it's become a staple of all things rustic and holiday styled: people grew up around these trees and associate the smell with home.
Best Places to Plant Cedar Trees
Cedar trees are majestic, long-lived evergreens that people appreciate for their beautiful appearance and pleasant smell while demonstrating great resilience across various climates. People plant cedar trees to serve as landscape focal points, windbreaks on expansive properties, and shade and privacy. Selecting the proper planting location for cedars is essential for securing their healthy development and extended lifespan. Find the best planting locations for these majestic trees with these helpful considerations and recommendations.
First, consider the climate. Cedar trees show some flexibility in their environmental needs but prosper best when planted in temperate or cool areas that maintain moderate humidity levels. The Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana) can survive in hot and dry conditions, whereas the Deodar Cedar (Cedrus deodara) thrives best in temperate climates. The selection of cedar varieties must align with existing local environmental conditions. Many cedar species find their ideal habitat in regions that experience mild summer temperatures and cool, rainy winters.
Second, assess soil quality. Cedar trees achieve optimal growth in well-drained soil that maintains a pH balance between slightly acidic and neutral levels of 6.0 to 7.5. Root rot and stunted growth occur when cedar trees are planted in heavy clay soils or locations that experience waterlogging. Organic materials like compost can enhance drainage while maintaining proper moisture levels. Performing a soil test before planting enables precise customization of amendments based on your site's specific soil conditions.
Third, prioritize locations with adequate sunlight. Cedars thrive when exposed to full sunlight, which requires at least six hours of direct sun daily. Certain species can grow under partial shade, but insufficient light produces thin foliage and slower growth. Avoiding shaded areas created by structures or thick stands of trees will ensure cedars get the sunlight they need.
Fourth, consider space. Certain cedar species reach impressive dimensions because they can grow to 50 to 70 feet tall while developing a widespread. Ensure enough space between cedar trees and nearby buildings or structures to allow their canopies to grow freely without causing damage or needing constant pruning. Cedar trees require proper spacing between each other to enhance airflow and minimize fungal infections.
Christmas Trees RainFifth, think about exposure to wind. Cedar species demonstrate excellent adaptability to windy conditions, which enables them to function effectively as windbreaks or screens. Select a protected planting site with natural or artificial wind barriers if your area experiences extreme winter winds or storms. Plant the cedars on your property edge to serve as windbreaks where strong winds most frequently strike.
Remember to evaluate how your landscaping objectives will guide your plant choices. Cedar trees planted in rows along property lines are popular for creating visual barriers and improving privacy. A single cedar tree planted in a sunny front yard or entrance area is an elegant focal point that enhances landscape visual interest. Regular pruning of these trees is necessary to keep their shape intact and eliminate broken branches.
Selecting optimal planting locations for cedar trees requires examining climate and soil conditions, sunlight exposure, space availability, and wind exposure while aligning with design objectives to ensure the trees flourish for multiple generations. Appropriate maintenance and thoughtful placement allow cedars to serve as an essential landscape element that provides beauty, shade, and lasting stability.
Cedar Size and Growth Rate
The Eastern Red Cedar Tree grows slowly, about 1 to 2 feet per year, based on its environment and how well it is cared for.
