Description

Suggested Uses

• Dwarf groundcover conifer
• Cascading over walls & rock gardens
• Staked specimen with weeping form
• Large containers & patios
• Bank/berm stabilization (well‑drained)
• Training/bonsai styling

Plant Details

• Botanical NameCedrus deodara ‘Feeling Blue’ (syn. Cedrus Deodora Feeling Blue)
• Common NameFeeling Blue Deodar Cedar; Blue Weeping Deodar Cedar
• Size & GrowthDwarf, mounding/pendulous; ~1–2 ft tall and 4–8 ft wide in 10 years; ultimately 2–3 ft tall and 8–15 ft wide without staking (taller if trained upright).
• Hardiness ZonesUSDA 6–9 (best in 7–9; protect from severe winter winds in zone 6).
• Foliage TypeEvergreen conifer; soft, needle‑like foliage in silvery blue to glaucous blue‑green.
• Bloom TimeNon‑flowering; produces inconspicuous pollen cones in fall and seed cones that mature the following year.
• Growth RateSlow to moderate (typically 4–8 in/yr depending on climate and culture).
• Light RequirementsFull sun for best blue color; tolerates light afternoon shade in hot summers.
• Attracts PollinatorsLow—wind‑pollinated conifer; not a nectar source for bees/butterflies.
• Indoor FriendlyNot suitable as a houseplant; requires outdoor sun, airflow, and seasonal cues.
• Container FriendlyYes—does well in large, well‑drained containers for several years; ensure winter root protection in cold zones.
• Deer ResistantGenerally deer resistant; browsing is uncommon but may occur on very young growth.
• Pet WarningConsidered non‑toxic; ingestion of needles may cause mild GI upset. Avoid essential‑oil products around pets.
• FragrantLightly aromatic, resinous foliage and wood when handled or warmed by sun.
• Cut FlowerNot a cut flower; branches can be used for winter greens and decorative cones.
• Grows Well WithGrows Well With Companion plants that like sun and drainage: Juniperus, Pinus mugo, heaths/heathers (Erica/Calluna), lavender, santolina, thyme, sedum, blue fescue, and dwarf Japanese maples (for contrast).

Care Tips

• Planting InstructionsPlant in full sun with shelter from extreme winter wind. Dig a hole 2–3× as wide as the root ball, no deeper. Tease circling roots, set root flare at or slightly above grade, and backfill with native soil enhanced with coarse grit for drainage.
• Soil MoistureKeep evenly moist the first growing season; then water deeply but infrequently. Avoid waterlogged conditions—root rot risk increases in soggy soils.
• Soil TypeWell‑drained sandy or loamy soils; slightly acidic to neutral (pH ~6.0–7.2). Use raised beds or berms in heavy clay and incorporate sharp sand or fine gravel for drainage.
• HumidityTolerates a range of humidity levels with good air circulation. In humid regions, avoid overhead irrigation late in the day to reduce foliar disease pressure.
• Pruning InstructionsMinimal pruning. In late winter, remove dead or crossed branches. To create height, stake a flexible leader early and tie loosely; avoid shearing, which spoils the natural weep.
• Winter CareMulch 2–3 in over the root zone (keep off trunk). In zone 6, provide wind protection the first 2–3 winters and water deeply before ground freezes. Container plants need insulated pots or a sheltered location.
• Planting DepthSet so the root flare is visible at the surface; never bury the trunk or plant deeper than it grew in the nursery container.
• FertilizationFeed lightly in early spring with a slow‑release, balanced conifer fertilizer if growth is weak. Avoid high‑nitrogen products late in the season to prevent tender growth before winter.
• Special CarePrioritize drainage and sun. Monitor for bagworms, spider mites, or aphids; treat early if detected. Re‑stake the leader annually if training a taller form; remove ties once the trunk lignifies.