Blue Atlas Cedar 'Horstmann'

About this plant

The Cedrus atlantica 'Horstmann', commonly known as Blue Atlas Cedar 'Horstmann', is a highly prized conifer celebrated for its intense, powder-blue foliage and distinctive, irregular yet captivating pyramidal to conical growth habit. This cultivar stands out with its densely packed, stiff needles that retain their vibrant color year-round, providing exceptional visual interest and a sophisticated anchor in the garden. Ideal as a specimen tree, its unique form and striking color make it a focal point in both formal and informal settings. Whether nestled in a mixed border or standing proudly as a solitary statement, 'Horstmann' adds dramatic texture and an elegant, cool-toned hue to the landscape, offering a refreshing contrast against greener plantings. Relatively slow-growing and exceptionally long-lived, this Blue Atlas Cedar ensures lasting beauty and value. Its sturdy nature and enduring charm make it a top choice for discerning gardeners and landscape designers seeking a mature, impactful presence without overwhelming smaller spaces.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Prefers well-drained soil. Tolerant of a range of soil types but thrives in slightly acidic conditions. Little pruning is required, generally limited to removing dead or damaged branches to maintain desired shape. Protect from strong winds when young. Fertilize lightly in spring if growth is slow.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.