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Western Thuja
This native evergreen greatly enhances biodiversity by providing shelter for birds and small mammals throughout the year. It is also an outstanding species for reforestation and ecological restoration.
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Product information
Product
identification
identification
Common nameEastern White Cedar
Latin nameThuja occidentalis
FamilyCupressaceae
TypeTree
CyclePerennial
Quantity per packMinimum 75 seeds
Code produitAKENE-0055
Product
description
description
Sowing
guide
guide
Sowing periodAutumn or spring after soaking and cold stratification
Best time
Autumn or spring
Sowing depth3 mm (0.1 in)
Spacing / density
3 to 5 m (10 to 16 ft)
Germination temperature18 to 20 °C (64 to 68 °F)
Germination time30 to 45 days
Propagation
Propagate primarily by seed after cold stratification. Stem cuttings are also commonly used to preserve the characteristics of selected horticultural cultivars.
Growing
method
method
Sow seeds in autumn or spring after soaking followed by cold stratification to improve germination. Plant the seeds about 3 mm (0.1 in) deep in a light, evenly moist growing medium. Temperatures between 18 and 20°C (64 to 68°F) typically produce germination within 30 to 45 days. Young seedlings appreciate bright light while being protected from extreme conditions. Transplant them into rich, cool, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. This native conifer is exceptionally well adapted to Canadian climates and can thrive for many decades.
Soil
and care
and care
ExposureFull sun to partial shade
Soil
Humus-rich, well-drained, cool to moist soil. This species tolerates wetter soils better than many other northern conifers.
Soil pHAcidic to neutral
Watering
Moderate watering is recommended during establishment and prolonged dry periods. Once established, Eastern White Cedar tolerates moderate fluctuations in soil moisture while preferring consistently cool soil.
Fertilization
A light application of compost or organic matter in spring promotes vigorous growth. Established trees rarely require additional fertilization when growing in healthy, organically rich soil.
Care levelLow
In spring, remove any dead or damaged branches and inspect the foliage for overall health. During summer, water young trees during extended dry periods to encourage strong root development. Apply organic mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. In autumn, avoid heavy pruning and allow the tree to enter dormancy naturally. Occasional monitoring is generally all that is required to maintain healthy growth.
Container
growing
growing
Recommended pot size
60 to 100 L (16 to 26 gal)
Eastern White Cedar can be grown in a very large, deep container during its early years before being transplanted into the landscape. Use a rich organic growing medium that remains cool and evenly moist without becoming waterlogged. Regular watering is important to prevent root stress, particularly during hot weather. For long-term health and full development, transplant the tree into the ground once it becomes well established.
Bloom,
harvest
and garden
harvest
and garden
Its dense evergreen foliage provides outstanding year-round privacy while offering essential shelter for wildlife. This long-lived native tree is also highly effective for stabilizing soil and creating durable landscapes.
This native evergreen greatly enhances biodiversity by providing shelter for birds and small mammals throughout the year. It is also an outstanding species for reforestation and ecological restoration.
Garden use
Eastern White Cedar is ideal for windbreak hedges, privacy screens, reforestation projects, and landscapes inspired by Canada's native forests. Its evergreen foliage provides year-round structure while offering valuable shelter for birds. It blends naturally with White Spruce, Birches, and American Mountain Ash in woodland plantings. Its excellent tolerance of cold climates and ability to stabilize soil make it one of the finest native conifers for ecological landscaping.
Bloom period
Small male and female cones appear in spring. Although inconspicuous, they produce the seeds that ensure natural regeneration.
Flower colorYellowish green
Foliage colorEmerald green
Harvest
Cones mature from late summer through autumn and should be collected before opening to harvest the seeds.
Fruiting
The cones mature from late summer through autumn and release their seeds under favorable conditions.
Wildlife appealBirds and beneficial wildlife
Size
and facts
and facts
Height15 to 20 m (49 to 66 ft)
Spread10 to 20 ft (3 to 6 m)
Growth rateModerate
Hardiness zoneUSDA Zones 3–8
Minimum temperature-40°C (-40°F)
Foliage typeEvergreen
Planting
partners
partners
Good companions
White Spruce, American Mountain Ash, Alternate-leaf Dogwood, Labrador Tea
Avoid planting with
Lavender, Santolina, Rockrose, Yucca
Recipe
and inspiration
and inspiration
Eastern White Cedar is not grown as a food plant. Its aromatic foliage and durable wood have a long history of traditional use among many Indigenous peoples of Canada for medicinal, practical, and cultural purposes. Today, the species is primarily valued for its ecological importance, rot-resistant wood, and outstanding performance as a windbreak and privacy tree. It remains one of the defining evergreen trees of eastern Canadian forests.
Frequently asked questions
Seeds can be sown in autumn or spring after soaking and cold stratification. These treatments improve germination by reproducing the tree's natural life cycle.
Yes. Eastern White Cedar is one of the best native evergreens for privacy hedges and windbreaks because of its dense, year-round foliage and excellent response to pruning.
Its dense evergreen branches provide valuable year-round shelter and nesting sites for many birds and small mammals, making it one of the most important wildlife trees in eastern Canadian forests.
Yes. Eastern White Cedar tolerates cool to moist soils and performs well in many well-drained wet sites, adapting better to these conditions than many other northern conifers.
Once established, Eastern White Cedar requires very little maintenance. Organic mulch and occasional watering during prolonged drought are generally all that is needed to keep it healthy.
The availability of our seeds varies depending on seasonal availability, production schedules and supplier inventory. Certain varieties may only be offered for a limited time based on their natural growth cycle, sowing period or available stock. These product pages are designed to help and inspire gardeners in choosing the right seeds for vegetable gardens, flower beds, pollinator gardens, container growing, naturalization projects and sustainable outdoor spaces.
