1. * Incense Cedar – Calocedrus decurrens
(kal-oh-SEE-drus deck-ER-renz or DEK-er-ens
Family: Cupressaceae (Cypress Family)
Montane forests from Oregon to n. Baja and east to w. Nevada. Locally, in the San
Gabriel Mtns.; ]; common in mixed-evergreen, yellow-pine forests 200-6500 ft. elevation, locally on
slightly wetter sites.
Native to:
woody tree
mature height: 40-70+ ft.
mature width: 25-50 ft.
Woody evergreen tree with a tapered, conical shape when young, becoming more rounded with age.
Thick bark is cinnamon-brown, fibrous, furrowed, and ridged. Evergreen, scale-like leaves in flat
sprays of aromatic, bright-green foliage. Truly handsome tree – scent is woodsy, soothing. Trees
grow slowly (after the first 20 ft) and can live over 500 years.
Growth characteristics:
Blooms in winter/early spring.
Cones somewhat showy.
Blooms/fruits:
Male and female cones typical for this family.
Uses in the garden: Most often used in large setting like public gardens, parks. Good choice for
hedges and screens, especially used along driveways and borders, as it can be sheared to desirable
shapes and has narrow form when young. Aromatic, woodsy scent a real positive. Leaves decocted
to treat stomach ailments, steamed to treat nasal congestion and colds. Aromatic wood widely used.
Sensible substitute for: Non-native evergreens.
Attracts: Excellent bird habitat: provides cover, nest sites –attracts many insect-eating birds.
Requirements:
Element
Sun
Soil
Water
Fertilizer
Other
Requirement
Full sun to part-shade.
Well-drained soils best; wide pH range.
Drought-tolerant once established – Water Zone 1-2 or 2.
Use an organic mulch – keep away from trunk.
Susceptible to soil fungi, rusts – don’t over water.
Management:
Not much management needed if watered and sited correctly.
Propagation: from seed: cold-moist treat, plant spring
by cuttings: semi-soft in fall
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 1, 8, 11, 13, 14, 16, 20, 25
4/28/12
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