Cyprus Cedar

Scientific Name:

Cedrus brevifolia

Arboretum Room:

The William Constable Drawing Room

Conifer

Pinaceae

Cyprus

About This Plant

Cedrus brevifolia, the Cyprus cedar, is a unique conifer native to Cyprus. It’s relatively small, about 30 to 40 feet tall, with green scale-like leaves and small oval cones. This cedar is known for its high-quality wood but is vulnerable due to over-exploitation. Conservation efforts aim to protect this valuable tree, which has historically been used in construction and carpentry for its durability and aromatic properties.

The Story

Leaf

The leaves of the Cyprus Cedar are characterised by their vibrant green colour and needle-like appearance. These evergreen needles are arranged in clusters along the branches, creating a lush and dense foliage. The leaves are slender, measuring around 1 to 2 centimetres in length, and emit a pleasant resinous fragrance when touched.

Produce

The fruit of the Cyprus Cedar is a cone-shaped structure that houses the seeds of the tree. These cones are typically small in size, ranging from 4 to 7 centimetres in length. The cones of the Cyprus Cedar have a woody and durable texture, providing protection to the seeds within. As the cones mature, they may release seeds to facilitate the tree’s reproduction.