Atlantic White Cedar
Chamaecyparis thyoides
None
About this plant
Atlantic White Cedar is a tall, narrow evergreen tree known for its soft, scale-like foliage and reddish-brown bark. It is valued for its durable wood and is often used in landscaping for privacy screens or windbreaks. This tree thrives in wetland areas and is native to the eastern United States.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Chamaecyparis
- Family
- Cupressaceae
- Higher classification
- Order: Pinales
- Plant type
- Tree
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Eastern United States
- Distribution
- Native to the eastern coastal regions of the United States, especially in wetlands and swamps from Maine to Florida.
Care
- Light preference
- Partial sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- North-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 3–7 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- -30 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 10-25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 4-8
- Soil pH
- acidic (4.5-6.5)
- Soil type
- moist, well-draining acidic soil
Watering. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water more frequently during dry spells, especially for young trees.
Fertilizing. Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can harm the tree.
Chamaecyparis thyoides is a hardy evergreen tree that prefers moist, acidic soils and can tolerate shade. It requires moderate watering and benefits from well-draining soil. It is generally low maintenance but may need occasional pruning to maintain shape.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- No
Soft, feathery evergreen foliage with reddish-brown bark that peels in strips. The tree has a narrow, conical form.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Non-toxic to humans and pets. Sap may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Moderate
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen, Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Moderate
Chamaecyparis thyoides (Atlantic White Cedar) pollen can cause mild allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, especially during its pollen season. People with pollen allergies should limit exposure during this time. The plant's sap may also cause skin irritation in some people, so wearing gloves when handling is recommended.
Common problems
Overwatering can cause root rot, and poor drainage may lead to fungal diseases. In dry conditions, the tree may suffer from needle browning. Pests are generally not a major problem.
Uses
Used as an ornamental tree in landscaping, for privacy screens, and in wetland restoration projects. Its wood is valued for durability.
Notes
Prune lightly after the growing season to maintain shape. Avoid planting in heavy clay soils that retain water. Repotting is generally not applicable as it is a tree.