How Does Cedar Reproduce?

Although cedars are not flowering plants, they produce gendered reproductive organs called "cones." Thus, they are called "conifers." Insects often play a role in pollinating petalled flowers, but in the case of cedars, winds facilitate the pollination of cones that results in production of seeds.

Does a cedar tree have seeds?

Cedar cones are slow to mature after fall pollination -- typically 17 to 18 months. When ripe, they burst open, releasing winged, 1/3- to 1/2-inch long seeds. These seeds germinate readily and grow into striking trees that thrive in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 6 through 9.

How does the Red Cedar reproduce?

Eastern redcedar reproduces solely by seed; there is no natural asexual regeneration. Eastern redcedar trees reach sexual maturity at approximately 10 years [29,80]. Reproductive activity may be influenced by tree size and site characteristics.