Western Red Cedar Excelsa

A handsome and adaptable conifer, Thuja plicata Excelsa is a vigorous, fast-growing, medium-sized to tall, evergreen tree with an upright, pyramidal habit and upward-sweeping branches. The bark is reddish-brown, flaking and fibrous, and the scale-like leaves are glossy and deep green, curiously scented of pineapple. Unobtrusive flowers are followed by tiny cones. Besides making a handsome specimen or avenue tree, Western Red Cedar Excelsa responds well to clipping and makes a good hedging plant, providing cover for wild-life.

Site: Tolerates exposure
Soil: Any well-drained soil
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Season of interest: All year
Hardiness: Very hardy
Height: 82’ (25m) Spread: 20’ (6m) in 10-20 years if left unclipped