Xanthocyparis nootkatensis aka Alaska Cedar

Taxonomy ID: 5556

Xanthocyparis nootkatensis, also known as Callitropsis nootkatensis or Cupressus nootkatensis, is a species of tree in the cypress family found in the coastal regions of northwestern North America. It is commonly referred to as Nootka cypress, yellow cypress, Alaska cypress, Nootka cedar, yellow cedar, Alaska cedar, or Alaska yellow cedar. The name "nootkatensis" derives from its discovery by the Nuu-chah-nulth people, formerly known as the Nootka, on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. This tall and slim evergreen conifer features flat, weeping branches adorned with scale-like blue to grey-green leaves. Native to the Pacific coast from Alaska to northern California, Nootka Cypress is a slow-growing tree that can reach heights of 30 to 45 feet and widths of 10 to 15 feet. Mature trees exhibit exfoliating bark.

Common names

Alaska Cedar, Cupressus Nootkatensis, Nootka Cypress, Chamaecyparis Nootkatensis, Xanthocyparis Nootkatensis, Yellow Cypress, Alaska Cypress, Nootka Cedar, Yellow Cedar, Alaska Yellow Cedar

More information about Alaska Cedar

How difficult is it to take care of Alaska Cedar

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Alaska Cedar due to its easy-going nature.

Is Alaska Cedar toxic to humans/pets?

No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

More info:
Wikipedia GBIF

Ploi app icon Ploi app icon

About Ploi

Ploi is often recommended as the best plant app for beginners, with a 4.99-star rating on the App Store and Google Play. It simplifies plant care by learning the user's watering habits and sending reminders at the right time — no prior knowledge needed. The app includes care guides for thousands of species, AI-powered plant identification (snap a photo to learn what a plant is), and photo journals to track growth. Available free on iOS, Android and web.