Northern White Cedar, Eastern White Cedar, Arborvitae
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Pinophyta, Class: Pinopsida, Order: Pinales, Family: Cupressaceae, Genus: Thuja, Species: Thuja occidentalis · Cupressaceae (Cypress family) · Specialized scale-like leaves; Evergreen
Species
Thuja occidentalis
Leaf Type
Specialized scale-like leaves; Evergreen
Family
Cupressaceae (Cypress family)
Shape
Flat, scale-like needles arranged in fan-like sprays
Size
Individual scales are 1-4mm; the entire spray shown is approximately 4-6 inches in length
Margin
Entire but overlapping in a shingle-like fashion
Arrangement
Opposite, four-ranked, overlapping scales on flattened branchlets
Rarity
Very Common
Color & Pattern
Dull green to yellow-green upper surface; paler beneath with no conspicuous white stomatal markings (unlike some other cedars)
Venation Pattern
Indistinct due to scale morphology; central midrib visible on individual scales
Texture & Surface
Smooth, waxy, and leathery; matte finish on the top surface
Description
A slow-growing coniferous evergreen tree known for its dense, conical crown. The bark is reddish-brown, fibrous, and peels in long, thin strips. It produces small, upright woody cones that turn brown when mature.
Key Features
Flattened fan-like branch sprays; pleasant aromatic fragrance when crushed; absence of distinct white 'butterfly' or 'X' markings on the underside scales; small 1/2 inch oblong cones.
Habitat
Swamps, lake shores, and cool moist upland sites; thrives in alkaline, limestone-based soils
Geographic Range
Native to eastern Canada and the north-central/northeastern United States; widely planted as an ornamental throughout temperate zones
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. The spray appears slightly dried and detached from the main branch; minor browning at some tips suggests seasonal water stress or natural senescence.
Interesting Facts
The name 'Arborvitae' (Tree of Life) was given by French explorers after native indigenous peoples used the Vitamin C-rich foliage to treat scurvy. Some specimens in the Great Lakes region are over 1,000 years old.
Medicinal & Uses
Used for aromatic oils, privacy screens in landscaping, and rot-resistant timber for canoes and shingles. Traditionally used in teas for respiratory issues (caution required due to thujone content).
Ecological Role
Critical winter browse for white-tailed deer; provide high-quality nesting and cover for birds like the cedar waxwing.
Similar Species
Thuja plicata (Western Red Cedar) is larger with white 'butterfly' markings on leaf undersides; Platycladus orientalis (Oriental Arborvitae) has vertical planes in its foliage sprays.
Foraging Tips
Identify by pressing the leaves to release the signature 'apple juice' or evergreen scent. Look for thin, shredding bark and small upright cones in wetland margins.
Toxicity Warning
Contains thujone, which can be neurotoxic in high doses. Moderately Toxic if large quantities of foliage are ingested by humans or livestock.