Western red cedar (Thuja plicata)

Western red cedar

Western red cedar (Thuja plicata) is a cedar tree species native to the western United States. Despite its name, the western red cedar is not considered a true cedar. Instead, it belongs to the Cypress family. This species is commercially used to make decks, siding, and the soundboards of guitars.

Scientific classification

Species

Western red cedar (Thuja plicata)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

1 mm to 3 mm

Flower Size

Brown, Green, Copper

Fruit Color

Yellow, Green, Black

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Images of Western red cedar

Attributes of Western red cedar

Growth Rate

With a slow growth rate, western red cedar gradually develops throughout the spring and summer seasons. The drawn-out progression allows for consolidated development of leafy foliage and steady height increment. Distinctively, western red cedar's conservative growth pattern aligns with its longevity, enhancing its resilience to seasonal variations and ecological pressures.

Distribution of Western red cedar

Distribution Map

Western red cedar is native to the Pacific US and Canada, where it grows on moist slopes, riverbanks, and flatlands. It has been introduced in western and northern Europe.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Small groves in moist to swampy soils, shady forests

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Western red cedar is a popular evergreen tree prized for its shape and beautiful green drooping needles. It is used in yards as a decorative tree, but can also be planted in stands to form a natural barrier. It is an essential plant in large, natural evergreen gardens. Plant it with ferns and hostas to add color and texture at the base.

Symbolism

Strength

Name Story

Western red cedar: In most authorities, both in Canada and the United States cite the English name as western red cedar or occasionally hyphenated as western red-cedar to indicate it is not a true cedar (Cedrus). However, the wood texture that the plant produces is similar to that of Cedrus and it is reddish-brown as well.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Western red cedar, including the following common varieties :

Western red cedar 'Fluffy'Western red cedar 'Atrovirens'Western red cedar 'Irish Gold'Western red cedar '4ever'

Toxicity

Western red cedar is moderately toxic to both cats and dogs. Ingesting any part of this plant can cause symptoms such as gastrointestinal upset, drooling, vomiting, and respiratory distress. Immediate veterinary care is crucial if western red cedar ingestion is suspected to ensure prompt treatment and the best prognosis for pets.

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Quickly Identify Western red cedar

Distinct braided foliage in flat sprays aids in identification.

Trunk with rugged, fibrous bark in gray to reddish-brown hues.

Slender, colorful stems resistant to breakage, ranging 0.1-0.3 inches (2.5-7.5 mm).

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Care Guide for Western red cedar

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from moist forests, western red cedar thrives in consistent humidity and prefers evenly moist soil. Water every 1-2 weeks to prevent root saturation. As an evergreen, its dense foliage enhances water retention, reducing transpiration and conserving moisture.

Fertilize: For western red cedar, apply balanced nutrition fertilizers in early spring and optionally mid-summer, following package dosing instructions. Prevent over-fertilization to protect roots and adjust usage in autumn for dormancy. Water before and after fertilizing to improve nutrient absorption and avoid root burn.

Pruning: Western red cedar, characterized by aromatic leaves and a conical shape, should be pruned in early to late winter. Remove dead or diseased branches, avoiding heavy pruning to minimize stress. Proper pruning enhances air circulation, reduces disease risk, and maintains visual appeal. Use clean, sharp tools.

Propagation: Western red cedar propagates effectively via layering, cutting, and sowing, best in autumn or winter. Success is marked by new growth and rooting, with minimal difficulties. Moisture and temperature conditions are crucial for successful propagation.

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