Calocedrus decurrens Aureovariegata - California incense cedar

The Calocedrus decurrens 'Aureovariegata' is a variety of Calocedrus or California White Cedar with very bright variegated foliage. Shimmering, it displays dark green leaves irregularly and generously streaked with yellow. It is a large conifer that resembles the thuja in its foliage or the Italian cypress, as its habit is columnar. Its bark is reddish-brown. It is hardy down to -15 to -17°C. It grows in full sun, in moderately dry, ordinary, and well-drained soil, but appreciates deep and moist soils.

The Calocedrus, also known as incense cedar, belongs to the Cupressaceae family. Mainly native to North America and Asia, it forms a majestic tree that reaches a height of 15 to 40 m at maturity, with an upright trunk and spreading branches. It is appreciated for its ornamental habit, interesting cultivars, aromatic foliage when crushed, and its wood used for pencil-making. Calocedrus species are characterised by their slender silhouette and pyramidal crown. The foliage is evergreen, with scale-shaped leaves arranged in opposite pairs along the branches. Calocedrus cones are round to oval in shape. They mature in one or two years, changing from green to brown. They often persist, adding a touch of colour to the tree.

The Calocedrus decurrens stands out with its flattened branchlets. The leaves in opposite pairs measure from 6 to 12 mm long. The pendant branches produce upright, ovoid, yellow-brown, then brown, female cones, measuring 2 to 2.5 cm. 'Aureovariegata' is a cultivar with irregularly variegated yellow foliage. It develops a narrow and columnar to pyramidal habit. It reaches a height of 15 to 20 m at maturity, with a width of 4 to 5 m. In its youth, it grows slowly, but then gains vigor.

The Calocedrus decurrens 'Aureovariegata' prefers sunny locations and well-drained soils. It is suitable for solitary planting in large gardens or parks. Its habit reminiscent of the Italian cypress gives it presence and distinction, and its colourful and variegated foliage attracts attention and brings a lot of light. Its hues are more pronounced in winter. Its uniqueness also lies in its flattened foliage, very atypical for a conifer. It is resistant to diseases and pests.