Thuja plicata aka British Columbia Red Cedar

Thuja plicata, also known as western redcedar, is a large evergreen coniferous tree in the Cupressaceae family. It is native to the Pacific Northwest of North America and is the largest species in the Thuja genus, growing up to 70 meters tall and 7 meters in diameter. The species is found in areas with a mild climate and plentiful rainfall, but can also grow in drier areas where water is available year-round. It is a long-lived tree, with some specimens reaching ages of well over 1,000 years, and is considered a climax species. Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest have used western redcedar for a wide variety of purposes, including building canoes, totem poles, tools, and clothing. The wood is aromatic and rot-resistant, making it ideal for construction purposes such as shingles and siding. The bark is harvested and processed into a fiber used for making rope, baskets, clothing, and rain hats. Due to its many uses, the species is of great cultural importance to these peoples. Best grown in moist, fertile, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade, this species is intolerant of dry conditions and thrives in cool summer climates. Though it prefers full sun, it appreciates some light afternoon shade in hot summer climates. However, it may struggle in areas with different climate and soil conditions than its native habitat. Cedar wood is highly valued as commercial timber for a variety of applications, including fences, boats, decks, outdoor furniture, telephone poles, and more. The fibrous, reddish-brown bark is a distinguishing feature of this species, along with its horizontal branching and sprays of scale-like dark green foliage that is aromatic when crushed. The species is not a true cedar of the genus Cedrus, but its name comes from the Greek name for a kind of juniper.