How to Grow Weeping Deodar Cedar
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Weeping Deodar Cedar
Cedrus deodara 'Pendula'
treeA graceful, weeping cultivar of the deodar cedar with long, drooping branches that create a cascading, fountain-like appearance. This evergreen conifer produces soft, needle-like foliage and develops an elegant silhouette as it matures. It serves as a striking ornamental specimen tree in landscapes with sufficient space.
When should you plant Weeping Deodar Cedar in your zone?
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Example Weeping Deodar Cedar timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Weeping Deodar Cedar
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Weeping Deodar Cedar
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Weeping Deodar Cedar dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 6b-9b, with best performance in zones 7-9
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Get my Weeping Deodar Cedar timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment (Year 1)
1 yearYoung tree with minimal weeping form; main branches are still relatively upright. Foliage is bright green and actively growing.
Water consistently 1-2 inches per week. Mulch around base with 2-3 inches of bark mulch, keeping it 6 inches away from trunk. Stake if necessary to support weeping branches. Avoid pruning except to remove dead wood.
Development (Years 2-5)
4 yearsWeeping form becomes more pronounced; drooping branches extend downward and outward. Tree gains height and width. Foliage remains dense and healthy.
Continue regular watering during dry periods. Remove stakes once tree is established (year 2-3). Light pruning to shape form and remove crossing branches. Monitor for pests and diseases.
Maturation (Years 6+)
OngoingFull weeping form is well-established with elegant cascading branches. Tree reaches mature height (20-30 feet depending on variety). Canopy is full and symmetrical.
Water only during extended drought periods. Prune to maintain form, remove lower branches if desired for underplanting. Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring if soil is poor.
Cone Production
Seasonal, typically visible summer through fallMature trees produce upright cones (2-4 inches long) that mature from green to brown. Cones develop over 2-3 years before shedding seeds.
Cones are ornamental and do not require management. Female cones appear on upper branches. No special care needed during cone development.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Monitor young growth for damage; use sticky traps; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil in early spring before heavy infestation; prune affected branches
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Increase humidity by misting foliage; use strong water spray to dislodge mites; apply neem oil or miticide if severe
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Prune infested branches; apply horticultural oil in dormant season; use insecticidal soap during growing season
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Prune infected twigs 6 inches below damage; sterilize pruning tools between cuts; improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering
Uses
Specimen Landscape Tree
OrnamentalThe weeping deodar cedar is prized as a focal point in gardens and landscapes, creating a dramatic silhouette with its cascading branches. Its graceful form works well in larger gardens, parks, and estates. [source]
Bird and Insect Habitat
WildlifeThe dense foliage provides shelter and nesting sites for birds and beneficial insects. Cones serve as food sources for various bird species and small mammals. [source]
Screening and Privacy
HouseholdMature weeping deodar cedars can be used in groupings for screening unsightly views and creating privacy barriers while maintaining year-round foliage coverage. [source]
Cones for Decoration
CraftThe attractive upright cones can be harvested and used in dried floral arrangements, wreaths, and seasonal decorations. [source]
Harvest Tips
Not applicable for ornamental specimen tree; cones may be collected for seeds if desired, or left on tree for ornamental value
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The common name 'deodar' comes from the Sanskrit word 'devdaru,' meaning 'timber of the gods,' reflecting its sacred status in Himalayan cultures.
- 🌱 Deodar cedar wood is naturally rot-resistant and aromatic, historically valued for temple construction and furniture-making in its native regions.
- 🌱 The weeping form 'Pendula' was developed from a branch sport (a natural mutation) of the species, creating the distinctive cascading growth habit not found in the wild.
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