- Common Name(s):
- Giant arborvitae, Western red cedar
Large evergreen in the Cupressaceae family native to the pacific northwest of the United States. It is the largest tree in the cypress family with dark green scale-like leaves on graceful branches that sweep out horizontially away from the tree. The leaves are fragrant when crushed. It thrives in areas with cool summer climates and does not tolerate dry conditions. It works well as a hedge or makes an excellent addition to a rain garden as it tolerates wet soils. It can tolerate being planted near black walnuts.
Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No serious insect or disease problems. Bagworm and some root rots may occur. These plants may struggle in the heat of North Carolina summers. Plant in an area protected from dry winds.
- 50-80 ft.
- Conifer, non-flowering, 0.5 in. erect female cones
- 5 to 8
- Sun to partial shade; moist well drained soil but does well in clay and tolerates wet soil; needs protection from wind
- Conical; narrow to broad pyramidal
- 15-20 ft.
- Rich green graceful foliage with white marks underneath; fragrant; keeps foliage color in winter
NCCES plant id: 2218