Thuja plicata aka British Columbia Red Cedar

Taxonomy

Genus Thuja Family Cupressaceae Order Pinales Class Pinopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
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.

Common names

British Columbia Red Cedar, Canoe Cedar, Giant Arbor Vitae

How to care for British Columbia Red Cedar

Difficulty

Caring for British Columbia Red Cedar is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.

Water

British Columbia Red Cedar should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

British Columbia Red Cedar loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

British Columbia Red Cedar requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Canoe Cedar is always in the right place to thrive.

Toxicity

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

Fertilizer

The British Columbia Red Cedar grows at a slow pace and doesn't require any supplementary fertilizers. By renewing its potting soil once a year, it should receive enough nourishment. Remember, plants obtain their energy from sunlight, not fertilizers.

Region of origin

British Columbia Red Cedar’s native range is Western N. America - British Columbia to California.

More info:
Wikipedia

More Species in Thuja Genus

Thuja occidentalis White Cedar

Thuja Arborvitae