Botanical profile

Thuja plicata 'Whipcord'

Latin name
Thuja plicata 'Whipcord'
Common name
Giant Thuja 'Whipcord'
Type
Ornamental conifer
Family
Cupressaceae

Thuja plicata ‘Whipcord’, commonly known as whipcord western red cedar, is an evergreen conifer with a globose, weeping habit, notable for its unique thread-like foliage. Its long, supple, lustrous dark green branchlets drape in fine cords reminiscent of whips, creating an original and contemporary texture in landscapes. In winter, the foliage often takes on bronze hues, adding further seasonal interest. Compact and dense, it is perfectly suited for rock gardens, borders, conifer gardens, or container cultivation. Thuja plicata ‘Whipcord’ prefers cool, rich, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil, and tolerates both sun and partial shade. Its sculptural silhouette and hardiness make it a distinctive choice for cold climate gardens seeking year-round texture and structure.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 5
Exposure
Sun to partial shade
Watering
Moderate, keep the soil cool and well-drained
Fertilization
Compost in the spring if needed
Soil type
Cool, rich, well-drained, slightly acidic
Minimum temperature
-30°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Spring
Flower color
Non-ornamental
Fruiting
Small, discrete light brown cones
Foliage color
Dark green turning bronze in winter
Foliage type
Persistent
Shape
Globose cascading filiform
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
4 ft (1.2 m)
Width
4.9 ft (1.5 m)
Growth rate
Slow
Pet friendly
Safe for pets

Pets

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.