Chamaecyparis thyoides Atlantic White Cedar

General

This species tends to grow in acidic peat swamps, mostly on raised microsites. It is a winter food source for many animals, including white-tailed deer. It looks somewhat similar to northern white cedar (Thuja occidentalis), but tends to grow in more acidic sites and the foliage isn’t as flattened. Charcoal from this species was used to make gunpowder in the Revolutionary War.

Plant Description

Narrow, conical form and feathery, scale-like foliage. The foliage ranges in color from bright green to silvery blue, adding to its ornamental appeal in landscapes. This evergreen conifer grows up to 50 feet tall, creating a graceful silhouette that complements wetlands and moist soils throughout its native range in eastern North America. Leaves and wood are aromatic.

Height (ft)
20-60

Spread (ft)
30-40

Soil moisture
Wet, including periodic flooding

Soil types
Acidic peat soils and coarse to medium mineral soils

Wetland indicator
OBL

Shade tolerance
Full Sun-Part Shade

Bloom color
Green

Bloom period
Spring

Fall conspicuous
No

Anaerobic tolerance
High

Drought tolerance
None

Salinity tolerance
None

Self-Pollinating?
Yes

Range

Along the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts of the United States, from Southern Maine to Southern Mississippi.

Kartesz, J.T. 2024. Floristic Synthesis of North America, Version 1.0. Biota of North America Program (BONAP) [website http://bonap.org/]

Additional Information

According to BRIT - Native American Ethnobotany Database, the Ojibwa has made a decoction of the leaves for an herbal steam to treat headaches and backaches. A poultice of the crushed leaves and bark has also been used to treat headaches.