An endangered species in its native range of the Rif and Atlas Mountains in Morocco, the blue Atlas cedar is a popular ornamental tree. It is a coniferous evergreen with a glaucous (bluish) tint to its needles.

A sturdy tree with an earthy scent that has antibacterial and antifungal properties, the Atlas cedar has many uses, oils distilled from the plant being used in aromatherapy, and craftsmen enjoying how the wood holds detail and can perfume a room.

A blue Atlas cedar is planted on the south lawn of the White House and was once the support of a tree house designed by Jimmy Carter for his grandchildren.

FAMILY: Pinaceae
NATIVE STATUS: Non-Native
NATIVE RANGE: Atlas Mountains: Northern Africa
FOLIAGE: Evergreen
MAX. HEIGHT: 115 ft.
MAX. AGE: 500 yrs.

Stop #4 on the Congressional Tree Walk

3 - Silver Linden
5 - Southern Magnolia

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Historic Congressional Cemetery is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit who realizes its mission in large part through charitable donations.