Incense Cedar | Calocedrus decurrens

The image shows a close-up of a green plant or shrub, featuring small, budding branches and dense foliage.
A close-up of a green plant branch against a blue sky, showing new growth and lush foliage.
A tall, dense evergreen tree with lush green foliage, likely in a landscaped area or nursery.
Photo Credit: Seven Oaks Native Nursery
The image shows a close-up of a green plant or shrub, featuring small, budding branches and dense foliage.
A close-up of a green plant branch against a blue sky, showing new growth and lush foliage.
A tall, dense evergreen tree with lush green foliage, likely in a landscaped area or nursery.

Description

Attractively shaped evergreen conifer with dense foliage often used in home landscapes. Wood has pleasant odor. Branches are flattened vertically, appearing fan-like. Bark is reddish brown and broken into scales in young trees, turning into fibrous ridges. Small scale-like leaves are in whorls of four, aromatic when crushed.

Plant Details

Habitats Mixed Hardwood-Conifer Forest or Woodland
Habitat Notes More commonly found at higher elevations (2000-8000 ft). Does well in dry conditions and slightly acidic soil.
Mature Height 160 ft
Shade Preference Sun, part shade
Soil Tolerance Tolerant of many different soil types
Special Uses Attracts birds; provides wildlife forage, cover and food; deer resistant; good species to plant in strips for windbreaks
Ethnobotany A decoction of the leaves were used to treat stomach troubles; steam from infusion of bark used to treat colds