Northern White-Cedar
Thuja occidentalis · Cupressaceae (Cypresses and Junipers)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Specialized scale-like evergreen leaves
Shape
Flat, overlapping scale-like leaves arranged in opposite pairs on flattened branchlets
Margin
Entire and smooth, tightly appressed to the stem
Arrangement
Opposite, arranged in flat, fan-like sprays
Venation
Parallel or indistinct due to the minute, scale-like structure of the leaves
Key Features
Flattened sprays of tiny scale-like leaves, aromatic foliage when crushed, small upright cones, and reddish-brown fibrous bark that peels in vertical strips
Description
An evergreen conifer forming a dense, conical tree with reddish-brown, shredding bark. The foliage grows in flattened, fan-like sprays of scaly leaves that emit a pleasant, aromatic scent when crushed. It produces small, oblong cones.
Habitat
Found in moist forests, swamps, along rocky riverbanks, and limestone cliffs; prefers wet soils and full sun to partial shade
Native Range
Native to eastern North America, spanning from southeastern Canada down through the northeastern and north-central United States