Lebanon Cedar (left) and Atlas Cedar (right)
© Joan Stacey

Cedar Trees

Date added: 01/02/2021 18:25:08
Author: Joan Stacey

Cedrus Libani
Cedrus Atlantica
Cedrus Deodara

The first word that comes to mind when you look at these wonderful trees may well be "majestic". The Victorians loved them and imported them to enhance their estates and public spaces including cemeteries and they adapt well in spite of coming from high altitudes in their native lands . We have three true cedars in the Cemetery - the Atlas and the Lebanon both can be found a little uphill from the Lodge , plus the Deodar on the lower corner of the
Chapel.
These are slow growing evergreen conifers reaching up to 130 ft. with narrow needle - like leaves and characteristic large barrel shaped cones which mature for a year before releasing the winged seeds. The young trees have a smooth grey bark which becomes brown and fissured with age.
The multi- purpose wood is light, soft, resinous and durable and can be used, for example, in furniture, buildings, some on a massive scale, boats and canoes. The natural resins make it salt water repellent and also insect resistant so it is especially useful to protect garments from clothes moths. The oils can be distilled and are important in the toiletries industry. They have also been used to apply to the feet of cattle, horses and camels to deter insects. The old forests have largely gone due to over - harvesting but a relict grove of over 400 trees survives on Mount Lebanon; they are reputed to be over 2000 years old.
The Bible is rich in references to the cedar (around 100) and it was associated with prayer, healing dreams and protection from disease. King David, according to the Book of Kings, used it for his palace and we learn, from the Book of Samuel, that the Temple was completely panelled with cedar wood.
In folklore , the size and longevity of the tree indicate strength and eternity and it is believed to be a symbol of freedom from pressures and prejudices. We all crave this freedom as we try to live our lives during the Covid pandemic so perhaps it holds a special meaning for us today .

When we able to hold our Welcome days at the Cemetery again and open up the Chapel we hope you will come along to explore the rich history, the plants and the wildlife in this special place.

© FNRC