Northern White-Cedar
Thuja occidentalis · Cupressaceae (Cypress family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Specialized scale-like evergreen leaves arranged in flattened spray patterns
Shape
Scale-like and tiny, closely overlapping in four rows along flattened branchlets
Margin
Entire (smooth edges on individual tiny scale leaves)
Arrangement
Opposite, overlapping scale leaves in a flattened, fan-like spray
Venation
Parallel or obscure due to the minute size of the scale leaves, with resin glands often visible on the center of the scales
Key Features
Flattened, fan-like spray of tiny, scale-like leaves arranged oppositely; strong, pleasant aromatic scent when crushed; reddish-brown stringy bark; small oblong cones with few scales
Description
Thuja occidentalis, commonly known as the Northern White-Cedar, is a slow-growing evergreen conifer featuring small, scale-like leaves pressed tightly against flattened, fan-shaped branchlets. The bark is reddish-brown, fibrous, and stringy, peeling in vertical strips as the tree matures. It produces small, oblong seed cones that turn brown when ripe. Known for its longevity and resilience, it often shapes the character of ancient cliff-side ecosystems and northern wetlands.
Habitat
Wetlands, swamps, limestone cliffs, and damp rocky woods; thrives in moist, alkaline soils with full sun to partial shade
Native Range
Native to northeastern North America, ranging from central Canada down to the northern United States, and widely cultivated as an ornamental throughout temperate regions