Calocedrus decurrens Incense Cedar

A western North America endemic found primarily in the Sierra Mountains of California as well as portions of Oregon and Nevada. The large, narrow, conical trees support flattened whorls of compressed, rich green needles. When bruised, the foliage emits a distinct fragrance that resembles the scent of shoe polish! The reddish-brown bark is thick and somewhat shaggy. Plants are drought tolerant and strong growing once established. Though wild plants can reach more than 100' in height it is more frequent to see landscape specimens mature in the 30-40' size class. As an added bonus, specimens take well to pruning and sculpting, adding utility for hedges and screens. If all else fails the wood is the prime choice of pencil manufacturers.