Cedar

True cedars are evergreen coniferous trees of the genus Cedrus, belonging to the pine family, Pinaceae. The genus contains four recognized species: the Atlas cedar, Himalayan cedar, Lebanon cedar and Cyprus cedar. They are native to mountainous regions around the Mediterranean and in the western Himalayas, where they can grow at elevations with cold winters.

Cedars have straight trunks and broad, spreading crowns, with branches that often extend horizontally. Their needle-like leaves are grouped in dense clusters on short shoots, while individual needles may also occur on longer shoots. Male and female cones grow on the same tree. The upright female cones mature over about two years and break apart on the branches to release their winged seeds.

Cedars are well adapted to mountain environments and can tolerate cold, although their precise requirements vary by species. Their deep and spreading root systems help anchor them in the soil, while their evergreen foliage allows photosynthesis during suitable periods throughout the year. Cedar wood is light, durable and naturally aromatic, making it useful for furniture, construction, interior work and other products.

Cedars have also been planted widely outside their native ranges as ornamental and forestry trees. The Lebanon cedar has particular cultural importance and appears on the national flag of Lebanon. Despite their resilience, some natural cedar populations face pressure from habitat loss, climate change, fires, pests and excessive harvesting. Protecting mature forests is therefore important for both biodiversity and the long-term survival of these trees.