13 Best Cedar Trees to Enhance Your Outdoor Space
Cedar trees are known for their rich aroma, robust growth, and lasting beauty, making them a standout choice for outdoor spaces.
Their timeless appeal and adaptability bring both structure and elegance to any garden, providing a natural, enduring touch. Here are details about 13 top cedar trees to grow.
Eastern Red Cedar Tree (Juniperus virginiana)
Eastern red cedar trees, despite their name, belong to the juniper family.
A unique feature of these evergreens lies in their dense foliage, which creates a natural barrier for privacy while also adding beauty to any landscape. Sharp, conical shapes dominate their growth pattern, giving gardens a structured look that many find appealing.
Those striking blue clusters of fruit stand out beautifully against the green backdrop and capture attention each season. With such versatility in purpose and aesthetics, this tree can transform your outdoor space into an inviting retreat where you feel shielded from prying eyes.
Japanese Cedar (Cryptomeria japonica)
Japanese cedar captivates with its unique charm, offering a blend of bright green foliage adorned with a subtle yellow tint.
This vibrant appearance draws the eye and adds character to any landscape. Seed cones hang gracefully in clusters, showcasing their spiky texture that intrigues those who take a closer look.
The bark tells its own tale; long strips peel away over time, revealing layers of light brown accented by hints of warm yellow-orange hues. Planting this tree transforms spaces into serene retreats where nature’s beauty flourishes around you.
Alaskan Yellow Cedar (Cupressus nootkatensis)
A unique beauty graces the landscapes of Alaska and beyond with the Alaskan yellow cedar.
Known for its sturdy, straight trunk, this tree features branches that elegantly drape foliage in a loose pyramid shape. You may find it captivating how this variety thrives in cold climates while still radiating charm.
Not only does it thrive along the west coast of Canada, but it also finds its home in the Pacific Northwest of America. Its presence adds an enchanting touch to gardens or yards looking for privacy without sacrificing elegance.
Atlas Cedar (Cedrus atlantica)
Atlas cedar stands out among its relatives, showcasing a breathtaking light blue hue that almost shimmers in the sunlight.
This majestic tree can reach heights of around 60 feet and spreads about 30 feet wide, offering an impressive sight in any landscape. Its pyramidal shape adds elegance to gardens or yards, creating a sense of verticality and structure.
Various cultivars exist that highlight this stunning coloration even more, allowing you to choose the perfect fit for your outdoor space. A true conversation starter, atlas cedar brings a unique charm while also providing essential privacy from prying eyes.
Golden Deodar Cedar (Cedrus deodara Aurea)
The golden deodar cedar stands out with its unique charm and manageable height, reaching around 20 feet.
Perfect for smaller gardens or urban settings, this tree adds a touch of elegance without overwhelming the space. Its foliage begins as a bright gold, gradually transforming into deep green hues over time, creating an eye-catching display throughout the seasons.
This gradual change offers visual interest that many other cedars may lack. Ideal for those seeking privacy without sacrificing beauty in their landscape design, it becomes a delightful focal point in any yard or garden setting.
Cyprian Cedar (Cedrus brevifolia)
The Cyprian cedar captivates with its unique charm.
Reaching about 40 feet, this tree fits nicely in various landscapes without overwhelming the surroundings. Its loosely pyramidal shape creates an inviting silhouette against the sky.
Small, dense needles grow closely along the stems, offering a delicate and airy texture that feels soft to the touch. This quality makes it a lovely choice for those seeking both beauty and privacy in their gardens or yards.
White Cedar (Thuja occidentalis)
White cedar, often known as arborvitae, serves as a reliable companion in landscaping.
This tree shines brightly among hedge plants due to its remarkable ability to create privacy and block out unwanted sights and sounds. You can count on it for low maintenance; just provide ample sunlight, and you’re set.
Many homeowners appreciate how effortlessly it fits into various garden designs while providing a natural barrier against wind too. Its popularity across residential areas speaks volumes about its charm and functionality in outdoor spaces.
Blue Atlas Cedar (Cedrus atlantica Glauca)
The blue atlas cedar stands out with its stunning bluish-silver needles that shimmer in the sunlight.
This tree not only enhances your garden's aesthetics but also serves as a natural privacy screen, creating a serene atmosphere. Its majestic form and robust nature make it an impressive choice for any landscape, whether you're aiming for elegance or tranquility.
Consider this tree if you seek something unique yet adaptable to various environments. The captivating color of its foliage transforms outdoor spaces into visual masterpieces while providing ample shelter from prying eyes.
Lebanese Cedar (Cedrus libani)
The Lebanese cedar captures attention with its majestic presence and rich history.
Recognized for its striking beauty, this tree often reaches towering heights of over 100 feet, showcasing an impressive canopy that spreads wide. Native to Lebanon and neighboring Mediterranean regions, it thrives in well-drained soils under ideal conditions.
The symbolism attached to the Lebanese cedar adds a layer of cultural significance; it's featured prominently on Lebanon's flag as a proud emblem of national identity. Planting one offers not just privacy but also a connection to nature’s grandeur and heritage that resonates deeply with many people.
Incense Cedar (Calocedrus decurrens)
The incense cedar offers a fascinating blend of beauty and practicality.
Native to the stunning west coast, this tree exhibits remarkable variability in size; some may reach only 15 feet while others soar beyond 100 feet. Patience pays off with this slow-growing gem, as it gradually matures into a majestic presence in any landscape.
Caring for it feels effortless, especially since drought resistance makes it suitable for drier climates where other trees might struggle.
Siberian Cedar (Pinus sibirica)
Siberian cedar, a tall and narrow tree, is native to Eurasia.
It thrives even in the harshest weather conditions. With its resilience against strong winds and biting winters, it becomes a reliable companion for your garden or yard.
Consider adding this unique tree to your outdoor space; not only does it provide privacy but also an elegant touch of nature’s beauty that stands firm through all seasons.
Deodar Cedar Tree (Cedrus deodara)
The deodar cedar tree, known scientifically as Cedrus deodara, stands tall among the true cedars.
This evergreen marvel features stiff, slender needles that form a lush green canopy with a soft grayish tint. As you gaze upward, those unique upright cones capture attention effortlessly.
Their layers create a stunning texture that adds character to any landscape. Ideal for privacy screens or simply enhancing your garden's beauty, this majestic tree makes an impressive statement wherever it grows.
Bermuda Cedar (Juniperus bermudiana)
The Bermuda cedar catches the eye with its unique charm, often surprising those who picture cedars only in chilly climates.
This evergreen stands strong, showcasing a robust trunk that supports an irregular yet captivating canopy of green. Growing near warm ocean breezes brings it a sense of character that few trees can match.
You might find this tree inviting for your landscape while knowing it plays a critical role in preserving biodiversity, especially given its endangered status.
