Cedar Facts
Cedar Facts
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| Interesting Cedar Facts: |
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| Cedar can reach from 98 to 131 feet in height and around 8 feet in diameter (trunk). |
| Cedar has dark-grey or brown bark. Surface of the bark is covered with square-shaped cracks or with thick ridges. |
| Cedar produces two types of shoots: long and short. Long shoots produce framework of the branches. Short shoots are covered with leaves. Crown of cedar is usually pyramidal in shape. |
| Cedar has needle-like leaves that are densely packed in spiral clusters on the branches. Color of the leaves ranges from light to dark green. Some species have bluish green needles. |
| Cedar leaves are covered with thick layer of white wax which prevents loss of water. Color of the leaves depends on the thickness of the wax. |
| Cedar does not produce flowers. Instead, it reproduces via cones. Cedar is monoecious plant which means that it produces male and female cones on the same tree. |
| Male cones are ovoid in shape. Even though they can be seen on the trees during the summer, they do not release pollen until the autumn. |
| Immature female cones are shaped like barrel and green colored. 12 months after pollination, female cones are ready to release winged seed. Mature cones are grey-brown colored. |
| Winged seed of some species of cedar are rich source of unpalatable resin which keeps the seed safe from small herbivores such as squirrels. |
| According to the legend, Lebanon cedar was used for the construction of ships for the Alexander the Great and for the construction of the temple of King Solomon in Jerusalem. |
| Wood of cedar was extensively used in the past for the manufacture of boxes, bowls, boats, tools and various weapons. |
| Fragrant oil extracted from the heartwood of cedar was used during the process of mummification in the ancient Egypt. Native Americans used this oil to repel mosquitoes. |
| Insect-repelling properties of cedar are appreciated in the industry of furniture. Closets made of cedar are moths-free. Wood of cedar is also used for the manufacture of shoe trees because it absorbs moisture and neutralize unpleasant smell. |
| Lebanon cedar is a symbol of tolerance and immortality in the Lebanon. It occupies central position on the flag of this country. |
| Cedar can survive more than 300 years in the wild. |
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