Western red cedar (Thuja plicata) is a tall-growing conifer that originates from western regions of North America. In UK gardens Western red cedar is a popular choice for medium to tall garden hedges as the rich, dark, glossy evergreen foliage has a moderately fast rate of growth and responds well to trimming. The variety commonly grown for hedging is Thuja plicata ‘Atrovirens’. There are other varieties of Thuja plicata, which are slower-growing and more compact in size, suitable to plant as single specimens or smaller hedges.
The leaves of Thuja plicata are scale-like, borne in flat sprays, and give off an aromatic, pineapple-like scent when crushed. Allowed to grow naturally, western red cedar forms a tall, conical-shaped tree. The branches are slightly drooping and made up of mid-green, scale-like leaves. Clusters of small flattened oval brown cones, up to 1.3cm long, are borne in summer and autumn.
For homeowners seeking privacy, beauty, and easy care all in one package, western red cedar hedge plants are an ideal choice. This graceful evergreen conifer makes a striking living fence or boundary hedge. Western red cedar offers year-round greenery, natural pest resistance, and adaptable growing habits. Read on to learn why this aromatic native tree is the premier hedge plant for gardens across many regions.
Overview of Western Red Cedar
With the botanical name Thuja plicata, western red cedar is a tall conifer species native to the Pacific Northwest of North America. It’s a member of the cypress family and can reach towering heights over 200 feet in its natural forest habitat. When crushed, the foliage gives off a sweet, pleasing aroma.
For hedging use, a dwarf cultivar called Thuja plicata ‘Virescens’ is typically grown. This compact selection reaches around 15 feet tall and 4-6 feet wide once mature. It has dense horizontal branching dotted with flattened sprays of scale-like deep green leaves. Small brown cones emerge in summer. The foliage stays evergreen throughout winter.
Benefits of Western Red Cedar Hedge Plants
There are many excellent reasons to choose western red cedar plants when installing a new evergreen hedge:
- Provides year-round privacy and seclusion with dense foliage.
- Naturally narrow, upright habit requires minimal trimming and shaping.
- Grows at a relatively fast rate of up to 2 feet annually when young.
- Lush green appearance retained even in cold weather.
- Tolerates frequent pruning well to maintain a controlled size.
- Boasts rich green color and soft, graceful texture.
- Gives an elegant, upscale look compared to basic arborvitae hedging.
- Aromatic leaves and stems naturally resist deer and rabbits.
- Thrives in USDA zones 5-9 across a wide geographical range.
- Offers shelter, nesting sites, and food for birds and pollinators.
- Avoid pest and disease problems that affect many hedge plants.
With this impressive list of merits it’s easy to see why western red cedar is a hedge planting superstar.
Growing and Caring for Western Red Cedar
Succeeding with western red cedar hedge plants starts with proper planting and care:
- Choose a spot with full sun to part shade exposure. Well-drained, fertile soil amended with compost is ideal.
- Space young plants 2-3 feet apart in the hedge bed for quick fill-in growth.
- Water new plants regularly for the first two years until their root systems establish.
- Apply 2-4 inches of organic mulch around plants to conserve moisture and reduce weeds.
- Fertilize in early spring using a slow-release, balanced formula to support growth.
- Prune as needed to shape and densify the hedge, taking care not to cut into old wood.
- Trim back protruding branches and top growth before the new spring growth cycle.
- Allow sufficient space between the hedge and any structures, walkways, or driveways.
With proper care, western red cedar will quickly grow into a gorgeously uniform, dense privacy hedge.
Sourcing Top-Quality Hedging Plants
When selecting western red cedar hedge plants for purchase, look for:
- Healthy green foliage, free of yellowing, browning, or defoliation.
- Well-established and expansive root systems. Avoid tiny underdeveloped plants.
- Good dense branching structure from top to bottom of the plant.
- Consistent shape and size across all provided plants.
- Local sourcing from growers within your USDA hardiness zone.
- Clear tagging and labeling with the exact botanical name.
- High-quality #1 grade plants from reputable certified nurseries.
- Availability of pre-finished hedge units for simpler planting.
Reputable sellers offering vigorous, healthy plants will give your hedge the best start.
Alternatives to Western Red Cedar
For those seeking alternatives, some other great evergreen hedge plants include:
- Green Giant Arborvitae – Extremely fast growing and deer resistant.
- Emerald Green Arborvitae – Budget-friendly and bright green in color.
- Leyland Cypress – Fast growing soft texture for warmer winter climates.
- American Arborvitae – Low maintenance with softer foliage.
- Portuguese Laurel – Excellent for mild zones. Thick and evergreen.
- European Hornbeam – Stunning deciduous choice with orange fall foliage.
But for the perfect combo of elegance, practicality and rich green beauty, western red cedar remains hard to beat as the ideal hedge plant for privacy and grace.
Add Sophistication with Western Red Cedar Hedges
With its towering mature height, lush greenery, and gracefully narrow profile, western red cedar instantly creates a refined, upscale hedge. It provides total seclusion while screening unpleasant sights or noises year-round. The aromatic foliage deters deer and rabbits from feasting. This versatile evergreen thrives with minimal care across diverse regions. For homeowners seeking the perfect living fence to define boundaries with style, western red cedar hedge plants are an unparalleled choice.
How to prune Thuja plicata
Use a hedge trimmer or shears to trim the top and the sides of a hedge, two to three times during the growing season. Ideally avoid pruning during the spring-early summer nesting season, but if you need to prune during this time, check for nesting birds beforehand.
Avoid trimming in bright sun which may cause foliage to scorch, as the freshly cut growth is sensitive to bright light and temperature. Slope the sides so the hedge is wider at the base than at the top to give even light distribution and shed excess rain or snow. Only hard prune the top of a hedge and cut around a third to a half of the growth from the sides.
When pruning or handling the cut foliage, wear gloves and clothing that covers arms and legs as contact may aggravate skin allergies.
Where to grow Thuja plicata
Thuja plicata and its varieties thrive in fertile, moisture-retentive soil. Avoid waterlogged or dry ground. Site in sun or shade, avoiding exposed sites as cold winds may scorch the foliage. Site according to the variety size and intended use.
A focus on Western Red Cedar hedging: All you need to know about Thuja plicata
FAQ
What are the disadvantages of Western Red Cedar?
- Root Rot. If you have a younger red cedar, be aware that it is more susceptible to root rot. …
- Flagging. …
- Wildlife. …
- Beetles.
How far apart do you plant Western Red Cedar hedges?
For a Western Red Cedar hedge, a spacing of 2-3 feet (60-90cm) apart is generally recommended.
How quickly do western red cedars grow?
Average Growth Rate
The growth rate of Western Red Cedar varies significantly, averaging between 30 to 60 cm (12 to 24 inches) per year under optimal conditions. This impressive growth allows the tree to establish itself quickly in its environment.
What is the best cedar for hedges?
Western Red Cedar is an ideal choice for hedges, providing instant gratification in the form of lush greenery, as well as long-term benefits such as: Dark glossy green foliage that keeps its form and color in all seasons. Conical shape and fast growth that responds well to hedging.