CEDRUS libanii ssp. brevifolia ‘Kenwith’

Description

CEDRUS libanii ssp. brevifolia ‘Kenwith’ is one of the preferred plants for Bonsai. Indeed, this extremely rare Cyprus cedar is classified among the miniature plants. Botanists consider it a subspecies of the Lebanese cedar. Sometimes it also carries the synonym CEDRUS brevifolia ‘Kenwith’.
The specimen in our photo measures around forty centimeters and is eight years old. Additionally, this tiny conifer grows only 3 to 4 centimeters per year with a fairly narrow conical shape.
It has tiny green foliage compared to the type species.
Given its small size, it will find a place in any garden.

How to plant and care for CEDRUS libanii ssp. brevifolia ‘Kenwith’?

Plant CEDRUS brevifolia ‘Kenwith in the ground, pot or container. If you plant it in the ground, prevent the development of weeds around the plant. Given its extremely slow growth, it could be invaded rapidly.

This dwarf conifer likes full sun, but is also happy with a location in partial shade.

The soil can be light, normal or heavy while being moist, moderately moist or dry with an acidic, neutral or calcareous pH.

Since this plant only grows very little, pruning should not be considered in a pot, container or in the ground. However, the plant tolerates it without difficulty.

Follow our instructions for planting in a pot or container here, as well as our watering advice here.

History and Origin

The type species CEDRUS libanii ssp. brevifolia finds its origins in the mountains of Cyprus (Troodos mountains). This species is naturally smaller than CEDRUS libanii (Lebanese cedar).

The scent of its foliage and its lovely cones make it a real asset for ornamental gardens.

Finally, Joseph Dalton Hooker described the species for the first time in 1880 under the name CEDRUS libanii var. brevifolia. There is a relationship between CEDRUS libanii ssp. brevifolia, CEDRUS libanii and CEDRUS atlantica (Atlas cedar).