Incense Cedar
calocedrus decurrens
Also known as: ["Incense-cedar","California Incense-cedar"]
Overview
A large, coniferous evergreen tree native to western North America, known for its aromatic wood and reddish-brown bark.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Pinophyta |
| Class: | Pinopsida |
| Order: | Pinales |
| Family: | Cupressaceae |
| Genus: | Calocedrus |
| Botanical Name: | Calocedrus decurrens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor planting in a sheltered location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12–38°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight in cooler climates, or filtered sunlight in hotter regions.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure proper ventilation if grown indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–14 days, depending on climate and soil conditions
Water thoroughly until runoff, ensure good drainage, and avoid frequent shallow watering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate fertility
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid prolonged frost.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute liquid fertilizer to half strength; avoid nitrogen-heavy formulas.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment takes 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading cuts to encourage bushiness.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead or diseased branches, and encourage denser growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts just above buds or branches.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for young plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; water after repotting; place in shaded area for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter, allowing soil to dry partially between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, browning tips, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn brown or drop; growth slows or halts in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Provide wind protection; use frost cloth in cold snaps; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced growth in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, especially in late summer or fall.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCalocedrus decurrens seeds are not toxic to cats. Ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation, but severe toxicity is unlikely.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicThe seeds of Calocedrus decurrens are not considered toxic to dogs. However, ingestion may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's fibrous content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCalocedrus decurrens, commonly known as incense cedar, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of seeds may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals due to their fibrous nature.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Calocedrus decurrens suitable for small gardens?
A: No, it is a large tree and requires ample space to grow.
Q: Does the Incense Cedar have any medicinal uses?
A: The wood is used in traditional medicine for its aromatic properties, but it is not commonly used medicinally today.
Q: How fast does Calocedrus decurrens grow?
A: It is a moderately fast-growing tree, typically adding 1–2 feet per year under optimal conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cupressaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–14 days, depending o |
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