Atrovirens Western Red Cedar

Atrovirens Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata 'Atrovirens')

Atrovirens Western Red Cedar is a vigorous, evergreen conifer with dense, dark green sprays that hold color through winter. Naturally pyramidal and full to the ground, it excels as a tall screen, windbreak, or specimen in larger landscapes.

Distinctive Features

Rich, glossy green foliage resists bronzing, while strong apical growth forms a uniform column to pyramid with minimal training. Aromatic, scale-like sprays provide fine texture and year-round structure.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade.
• Soil: Moist, well drained loam; tolerates clay once established.
• Water: Keep evenly moist, especially during establishment and summer dry spells.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 8.
• Mature Size: 30 to 40 ft tall and 10 to 15 ft wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Strong evergreen form anchors large beds and entries.
• Privacy Screen: Dense branching creates an effective year-round barrier.
• Windbreak: Tall, durable structure reduces exposure on open sites.
• Hedging: Spaces well for formal or informal tall hedges.
• Wildlife Value: Provides cover and nesting sites for birds.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water deeply and regularly the first 2 seasons; maintain soil moisture in heat.
• Pruning: Minimal; avoid cuts into old wood and tip prune lightly to maintain density.
• Fertilizing: Feed in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer if growth is light.
• Mulching: Apply a 2 to 3 in layer to conserve moisture and moderate soil temperature.
• Notes: Provide good air flow and avoid prolonged drought or waterlogged sites to prevent stress.

Why Choose Atrovirens Western Red Cedar?

• Reliable Color: Dark green foliage holds through winter without bronzing.
• Fast Establishment: Strong growth builds screens sooner than many alternatives.
• Dense Habit: Naturally full to the ground for effective privacy.
• Adaptable: Performs in sun or light shade and a range of soils.
• Long-Term Structure: Provides lasting evergreen architecture for large spaces.

Site in full sun to partial shade with consistent moisture and room to mature, and tip prune lightly to maintain a dense, uniform face on hedges or screens.