Information about Cedrus deodara

Cedrus deodara, commonly known as the deodar cedar or Himalayan cedar, is a species of coniferous tree native to the western Himalayas and eastern Afghanistan. It belongs to the family Pinaceae and is known for its majestic stature and attractive evergreen foliage.

The tree can reach heights of up to 60-80 feet (18-24 meters) with a spread of 20-40 feet (6-12 meters). The trunk can reach a diameter of 6 feet (1.8 meters), and it has a broad, conical shape with drooping branches that form a graceful, sweeping appearance. The bark is brown or gray and develops deep ridges and furrows as it ages.

The needles of Cedrus deodara are arranged in clusters of 20-30 on short shoots and are approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm) long. They are bluish-green and remain on the tree for up to 5 years before shedding. The tree also produces large cones, which can reach up to 8 inches (20 cm) in length and are a distinctive feature of the species.

Cedrus deodara is widely cultivated as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks, where it is valued for its attractive appearance and tolerance of a wide range of growing conditions. The wood of the tree is also highly valued for its durability and resistance to rot and insect infestation, and it is often used in construction and furniture making.

In traditional medicine, the bark and resin of Cedrus deodara have been used for their antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. The tree is also considered sacred in some cultures, and its name, "deodar," is derived from the Sanskrit words "deva" (meaning "god") and "daru" (meaning "wood").