Introducing Cedrus deodara 'Feelin' Blue': A Stunning Blue Cedar for Your Landscape
The search for a unique, eye-catching addition to your garden or landscape ends with Cedrus deodara 'Feelin' Blue'. This striking cultivar of the Himalayan Cedar is not just another evergreen; it's a vibrant, low-maintenance plant that adds a splash of color to any setting. Let's delve into the world of 'Feelin' Blue' and explore why it's becoming a favorite among garden enthusiasts and landscapers alike.
Blue Beauty: A Standout Feature
Cedrus deodara 'Feelin' Blue' is renowned for its striking silver-blue foliage, which sets it apart from other evergreens. The needles are soft to the touch, with a unique, almost powdery, blue hue that catches the light and creates a stunning contrast against darker greenery. This coloration is most pronounced in spring and summer, fading to a silvery-green in the cooler months, but still retaining its distinctive appearance.
Why Does 'Feelin' Blue' Stay Blue?
Unlike some other blue-needled evergreens, 'Feelin' Blue' maintains its color throughout the growing season due to a higher concentration of the blue pigment, glaucin. This pigment is produced when the plant's waxy coating reflects light in a way that enhances the blue hues. The result is a consistently vibrant plant that adds a pop of color to any landscape.
Hardy and Low-Maintenance
While 'Feelin' Blue' is a showstopper in the looks department, it's also a practical choice for gardeners and landscapers. This cultivar is hardy and adaptable, thriving in a range of soil types and preferring full sun to partial shade. It's also drought-tolerant once established, making it a low-maintenance option for those with busy schedules or watering restrictions.
Size and Shape: The Perfect Fit
Cedrus deodara 'Feelin' Blue' grows at a moderate rate, reaching heights of 40-50 feet with a spread of 20-30 feet at maturity. Its pyramidal shape makes it an excellent choice for screening, windbreaks, or as a standalone specimen plant. The dense growth habit provides excellent privacy and can help reduce noise pollution.
Versatile Landscaping Options
'Feelin' Blue' is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of landscaping scenarios. Its striking color and pyramidal shape make it an excellent choice for:
- Specimen planting in large gardens or parks
- Screening and privacy hedges
- Windbreaks and noise barriers
- Containers or large planters (when young)
Pairing 'Feelin' Blue' with Other Plants
To create a harmonious landscape, consider pairing 'Feelin' Blue' with plants that complement its striking color. Dark green evergreens, such as Thuja or Taxus, create a striking contrast, while plants with yellow or purple flowers, like Forsythia or Hydrangea, can provide a vibrant pop of color.
Care and Maintenance
While 'Feelin' Blue' is low-maintenance, it does require some care to ensure it remains healthy and vibrant. Regular watering during the first year of planting is crucial to help establish a strong root system. Once established, this plant is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering. Pruning is typically not necessary, but if you choose to prune, do so in late winter or early spring to encourage denser growth. Avoid pruning in fall, as this can encourage new growth that may not harden off before winter.
Conclusion
Cedrus deodara 'Feelin' Blue' is more than just a blue evergreen; it's a dynamic, low-maintenance plant that adds a vibrant touch of color to any landscape. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a beginner looking to add some pizzazz to your outdoor space, 'Feelin' Blue' is a plant worth considering. With its striking appearance, hardiness, and versatility, it's no wonder this blue cedar is gaining popularity among garden enthusiasts and landscapers alike.
