Tree · Cupressaceae family
Western red cedar
Thuja plicata
In short a 10-second read
in the wild up to 82 ft
spacing 16 ft 4⅞ in
Where to plant and how much to water
Sun, soil and water.
It grows best in full sun to part shade, in average to moist soil.
Sun
Soil
Watering
Frost
How much space it takes
Mature size.
The mature plant next to a person (69 in).
Plant 16 ft 4⅞ in apart.
Reaches maturity in about 10–20 years. The final size depends on the cultivar and the spot — we give the range from smallest to largest.
Calendar
Through the year.
Typical for a temperate climate (four seasons). The line shows the current month.
The year at a glance
Planting
container plant: March–April, September–October; root-balled: March–April, September–October
Feeding
May–June
Feeding
Nutrition.
up to 0.18 oz/sq ft a year, if the soil needs it · May–June
Pests and diseases
Common problems and what to do.
The most common problems in Central Europe. Protection is listed from the gentlest option.
No serious pests or diseases
The source lists no significant problems.
Sources (1)
Frequently asked
Quick answers.
Does western red cedar tolerate shade?
It tolerates part shade (3–6 hours of sun), but not full shade.
How much space does western red cedar need?
At maturity 16 ft 4⅞ in–26 ft 3 in wide and 49.2 ft–82 ft tall; recommended spacing 16 ft 4⅞ in.
Sources (13) Checked 24 October 2026
- api.gbif.org 2
- plants.ces.ncsu.edu
- vdberk.com
- rhs.org.uk 2 3
- hgic.clemson.edu
- lwg.bayern.de
- plants.usda.gov
- Invasive plant lists — this species is not on them: Slovakia, Czechia, Germany
Similar plants
Have a look at these too.
American arborvitae
Thuja occidentalis