Cedar of Lebanon

Frequently asked questions

Is Cedar of Lebanon good for the Colorado Front Range?

Yes, Cedar of Lebanon is a well-suited tree for Colorado's Front Range, rated "Conditionally Recommended" on the 2024 Front Range Tree Recommendation List.

Why is Cedar of Lebanon only conditionally recommended on the Front Range?

The main catches here: Our alkaline clay locks up iron for this one, so leaves often yellow between green veins and growth stalls unless you treat it. It is only borderline hardy here, so a hard Front Range winter can knock it back or kill it; treat it as a gamble for a warm, sheltered spot.

How big does Cedar of Lebanon get?

It matures to about 40–60 ft tall and 30–50 ft wide.

How much room does Cedar of Lebanon need?

Give Cedar of Lebanon about 50 ft of clearance from buildings, fences, and other trees so the mature canopy isn't crowded.

What shape does Cedar of Lebanon grow into?

Cedar of Lebanon typically grows into an irregular, picturesque outline that varies from plant to plant. This is the species' usual mature form, named cultivars (columnar, weeping, or compact selections) can differ, so check the specific cultivar.

Is Cedar of Lebanon hardy on the Front Range?

Cedar of Lebanon is hardy in USDA 6–9. The Colorado Front Range spans roughly USDA 4b–6a, so it is at its cold edge here. Site it in a warm microclimate and protect young plants. That said, it carries a cold-hardiness caution: It is only borderline hardy here, so a hard Front Range winter can knock it back or kill it; treat it as a gamble for a warm, sheltered spot.

How much water does Cedar of Lebanon need?

It needs medium water once established.

How fast does Cedar of Lebanon grow?

Cedar of Lebanon is a slow-growing tree. Growth rate depends on water and site conditions on the Front Range.

How long does Cedar of Lebanon live?

Cedar of Lebanon is long-lived, a multi-generational tree given good siting and care. Actual lifespan varies with site, water, and care.

Is Cedar of Lebanon native to Colorado?

No. It is not a Colorado native, but it grows well on the Front Range.

Is Cedar of Lebanon deer-resistant?

Cedar of Lebanon is generally considered deer-resistant, though no plant is deer-proof when browse pressure is high.