Northern White Cedar
Evergreen conifer growing 12-15 m tall with a pyramidal to narrow-conical form. Features scale-like leaves arranged in flat sprays. Produces small, upright cones. Prefers moist, well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade. Tolerates wet soils and cold temperatures. Provides important winter cover for wildlife. Suitable for windbreaks, hedges, and screening. Many cultivars available for landscaping. Native to northeastern North America.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: N/A (Conifer)
Bloom Time: N/A (Conifer)
Sun Requirements: Sun to Part-Shade
Moisture: Moist to Wet
Phenology: Evergreen foliage year-round. New growth emerges May-June. Small cones develop summer, maturing fall. May show bronzing in winter.
Wildlife Value: Critical winter cover for birds and mammals; seeds eaten by songbirds and small mammals; important nesting sites
Habit Over Time: Develops into a dense, pyramidal to columnar form with horizontal branches arranged in flat sprays. While it doesn't spread vegetatively, it can create deep shade that limits understory planting. The evergreen foliage provides strong year-round structure and wildlife shelter.
Height: Tall (40-50 feet)