Atlas cedar

Profile

Family

Pinaceae

Habit

Tree

Height

22.5 m

Spread

8 m

Growth

slow

Lifespan

250 years

First yield

after 25 years

Hardiness

zone 6–9

Shade tolerance

light shade

Soil

Sand, Silt, Loam

Soil moisture

dry – very moist

pH

6 – 7.5

Synonyms

Atlaszeder

Uses

Medicinal: An essential oil extracted from distilled branches serves as a potent antiseptic and fungicide, stimulating the circulatory and respiratory systems while calming the nerves. It also possesses astringent, diuretic, expectorant, and soothing properties. When diluted with a carrier oil like almond oil and massaged into the skin, it is utilized in treating skin conditions, ulcers, chest infections, catarrh, cystitis, and dandruff. It is employed as an inhalant for bronchitis, tuberculosis, and nervous tension. An infusion of the branches can also be beneficial.

Other uses: Essential oil distilled from branches is utilized in perfumery, particularly in jasmine-scented soaps, and also serves as an insect repellent. Plants can be grown as tall hedges, with fragrant and durable wood valued for carpentry, veneer, and construction purposes. Additionally, it is used in the production of insect-repellent items for textile storage.

Origin & habitat

North Africa - Morocco and Algeria.

Thrives in poor soils but does best in well-draining, sandy soils.

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