Excelsa Western Red Cedar

Excelsa Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata 'Excelsa')

Excelsa Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata 'Excelsa') is a tall, narrow evergreen tree valued for its lush green foliage, uniform growth habit, and excellent screening capabilities. Also known simply as Excelsa Cedar, this cultivar is a go-to choice for privacy hedges and noise barriers in both residential and commercial landscapes.

Distinctive Features

'Excelsa' features dense, slightly drooping sprays of aromatic green foliage that hold their color well through winter. It typically grows 20 to 30 feet tall and 8 to 12 feet wide, forming a tight, upright pyramidal shape. Unlike the species, 'Excelsa' has a more refined habit and does not become overly broad with age, making it ideal for space-conscious plantings.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Type: Moist, well-drained loam or sandy soils
• Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral
• Water Needs: Moderate to high, especially in dry spells
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 8

Ideal Uses

• Evergreen privacy screen for property borders
• Windbreak for farms, estates, or large gardens
• Background planting for natural woodland designs
• Noise buffer along roads or driveways
• Focal point for vertical interest in mixed borders

Low Maintenance Care

• Water regularly in the first few years after planting
• Apply mulch annually to retain moisture and reduce weeds
• Light pruning may be done to maintain formal shape
• Monitor spacing to ensure airflow and reduce disease
• Use slow-release fertilizer in spring if needed

Why Choose Excelsa Western Red Cedar

• Refined, narrow growth habit ideal for screening
• Retains rich green color throughout the year
• Tolerant of shearing for formal hedge applications
• Provides year-round privacy and sound buffering
• A reliable evergreen focal point for structured or natural landscapes

Excelsa Western Red Cedar is a dense, upright evergreen that offers privacy, structure, and timeless appeal�making it a strong focal point and functional choice for hedges and borders alike.