Cedrus deodara Aurea - Himalayan Cedar

The Cedrus deodara 'Aurea', better known as the golden Himalayan cedar, is distinguished from the species by its slower and more moderate growth, as well as its bright spring foliage. It has a beautiful pyramidal habit with slightly drooping branches. Ideal for medium-sized gardens, it will become one of the star plants in just a few years. 

The Cedrus deodara belongs to the family of Pinaceae. It is native to high-altitude temperate forests (between 1500 and 3000 metres (4921 feet 4 inches and 9842 feet 6 inches) above sea level) that cover the southern foothills of the Himalayas. Its distribution range extends from Afghanistan to Tibet, India, Nepal, and Pakistan. The cultivar 'Aurea' was selected in 1866 by J. Nelson. In our climate, it reaches an average height of 8 metres (26 feet 2 inches) with a spread of 6 metres. Its growth is slower than that of the species. Its overall habit is pyramidal and dense. It develops a very vertical trunk, covered with a greyish, dark bark that cracks into large irregular scales. Its branches, almost horizontal, bear trailing secondary branches. The terminal shoots also droop, giving it a slightly weeping appearance. The top of this cedar does not flatten over the years. The needles are grouped in clusters. They are 3 to 5 cm (1.2 to 2 in) long, flexible, and golden yellow when they emerge, becoming tender green. Male and female cones coexist on the same tree. They measure 7 to 12 cm (2.8 to 4.7 in) long and 5 to 9 cm (2 to 3.5 in) wide. They consist of fine scales, each containing a seed extended by a wing. These large seeds will germinate easily after winter and exposure to cold temperatures.

The Cedrus deodara 'Aurea' is a majestic conifer that is best planted as a specimen to fully appreciate its beautiful silhouette. If space allows, multiple trees can be planted along a pathway, creating a whole new dimension and a style that is both original and romantic. Make sure to space the trees sufficiently so that they do not overcrowd each other in the future. Surprisingly, the sacred cedar also adapts well to bonsai cultivation. Due to its lighter foliage, the 'Aurea' cultivar will appreciate a partially shaded exposure in regions with hotter summers.