Cedar wood, valued for its distinctive aroma and durability, is sought after for various applications. However, “cedar” does not refer to a single type of tree, but rather encompasses a diverse group from different botanical families. This broad naming convention can lead to confusion, as many species are called “cedar” due to shared characteristics like fragrant wood or similar appearance, despite not being botanically related. Understanding the origins of these varied trees reveals a global distribution across different continents and climates.
True Cedar Trees and Their Native Habitats
The trees considered “true cedars” belong exclusively to the genus Cedrus, part of the pine family (Pinaceae). These conifers are native to mountainous regions spanning the Mediterranean basin and the western Himalayas. They are adapted to climates with cool, moist winters and warm, dry summers, receiving winter precipitation primarily as snow.
The Cedar of Lebanon (Cedrus libani) is found in the mountains of Lebanon, Syria, and Turkey. It thrives at elevations between 1,300 and 3,000 meters (4,300 to 9,800 feet), forming pure or mixed forests. The Atlas Cedar (Cedrus atlantica) is another true cedar, native to the Atlas Mountains of North Africa, in Morocco and Algeria. It grows well in temperate climates and is cultivated as an ornamental tree.
The Deodar Cedar (Cedrus deodara) originates from the Himalayas, ranging across East Afghanistan, Pakistan, Northern India, South Western Tibet, and Western Nepal. It is found at altitudes ranging from 1,500 to 3,200 meters (5,000 to 10,000 feet). The Cyprus Cedar (Cedrus brevifolia) is found solely in the Troodos Mountains of central Cyprus. It grows in pure forests on mountain tops but can also be found alongside other tree species.
Other Woods Commonly Called “Cedar” and Their Origins
Beyond the Cedrus genus, many other conifers are colloquially known as “cedar.” This occurs because their wood shares desirable qualities with true cedars, such as aromatic properties, resistance to decay, or a similar appearance. These trees belong to different botanical families, primarily the cypress family (Cupressaceae) or the mahogany family (Meliaceae).
The Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata) is native to the Pacific Northwest of North America. Its range extends from southeastern Alaska down to northern California, and inland to parts of British Columbia and Montana. It is found in cool, moist forest areas and bottomlands, in association with Douglas-fir and western hemlock.
Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana) is widespread across eastern North America, from southeastern Canada to the Gulf of Mexico, extending east of the Great Plains. It is adaptable, growing in diverse habitats including limestone bluffs, glades, fields, and pastures. The wood is aromatic and resistant to rot, making it popular for cedar chests.
Spanish Cedar (Cedrela odorata) is a deciduous tree from the New World tropics, ranging from Mexico through Central America and the West Indies, down to South America, reaching its southern limit in Argentina. It thrives in moist and seasonally dry subtropical or tropical forests, preferring well-drained soils.
The Port Orford Cedar (Chamaecyparis lawsoniana), native to a region of southwestern Oregon and northwestern California. It grows from sea level up to 1,500 meters (4,900 feet) in the valleys of the Klamath Mountains, found along streams. Its wood is valued for its strength and rot resistance.