Cedrus atlantica
Description
Cedrus atlantica, commonly known as the Atlas cedar, is a species of cedar native to the Atlas Mountains in Morocco and Algeria. It is a large, evergreen, coniferous tree that can reach heights of 30 to 40 meters, and in some cases, up to 60 meters. The tree's crown is conic when young, becoming broad with age. The bark is grey to silver-grey, and fissures deeply with age. The needles are dark green to blue or silvery blue, being highly variable in color across populations.
Habitat and Distribution
The Atlas cedar is found in the Atlas Mountains, a range that extends from southwestern Morocco through northern Algeria to northeastern Tunisia. It grows at altitudes of 1,300 to 2,600 meters above sea level. The species prefers humid, temperate climates and is found in areas with annual precipitation of 400 to 1,000 mm.
Ecology
The Atlas cedar forms forests and woodlands, often in association with other coniferous trees such as the Aleppo pine and the Maritime pine. These forests provide habitat for a variety of wildlife, including several species of birds and mammals. The tree's seeds are an important food source for many bird species, including the Eurasian jay and the European greenfinch.
Morphology
The Atlas cedar is a large tree, typically reaching 30 to 40 meters in height, though exceptional specimens can exceed 60 meters. The trunk is massive and columnar, with a diameter of up to 2 meters. The bark is grey to silver-grey and deeply fissured, especially in older trees. The branches are level to ascending, and the crown is conic when young, becoming broader with age.
The needles are borne in dense clusters on short shoots, and are dark green to blue or silvery blue, being highly variable in color across populations. The male cones are small, yellowish, and release pollen in autumn. The female cones are green when young, maturing to a rich, chestnut-brown. They are barrel-shaped, 6 to 8 cm long and 3 to 5 cm broad, and disintegrate when mature to release the winged seeds.
Uses
The wood of the Atlas cedar is highly valued for its quality and aroma. It is used in carpentry and joinery for the production of furniture, decking, and other items. The tree's essential oil, obtained from the wood, leaves, and cones, is used in perfumery and aromatherapy. The Atlas cedar is also widely planted as an ornamental tree in parks and large gardens.
Conservation
The Atlas cedar is listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List due to a population reduction of over 50% in the past three generations, caused by a decline in its natural range, and exploitation. Conservation efforts are focused on habitat preservation, sustainable use of resources, and reforestation.