Western Red Cedar Conifer (Thuja plicata 'Atrovirens')

Western Red Cedar Plant Description

Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata Atrovirens) is a preferred conifer for hedging, offering a slower growth rate and easier maintenance compared to Leylandii. It features vibrant mid to dark green foliage arranged in attractive sprays, with a glossier appearance than that of many other conifers. The aromatic leaves emit a sweet fragrance when crushed.

Although still fast-growing at 40-60 cm per year, Western Red Cedar can be pruned back into older wood without the risk of browning, thereby simplifying maintenance. While it may produce small cones, it is primarily valued for its lush, dense foliage. This hedge provides an excellent evergreen screen for privacy and offers protection from noise and wind. Additionally, Thuja plicata Atrovirens is effective at absorbing pollution particles from traffic, making it well-suited for both heavily trafficked areas and suburban or rural settings.

Pruning Advice

To best care for your Western Cedar Hedge, trimming should be done twice a year, in Spring and again in early Autumn.

Further Information

Our recommended planting densities for each size and root type are listed in the product grid. These should be used as a guide when considering the time you are willing to wait for your hedge to achieve its full appearance. As a general indication, bare root plants can be spaced at 3 to 7 per metre, while cell-grown plants can be spaced between 4 and 6 per metre. For higher densities, consider planting in a double staggered row or a zig-zag pattern.

Delivery & Returns

Free delivery is available on most orders (except Premium Products) providing they meet the minimum spend criteria for the size of box or pallet. Pallet deliveries and large box deliveries for tall plants are indicated by icons on the product table listings. Delivery costs and minimum order details for each packaging type are as follows:

* Standard Sized Boxes (Bare root up to 1.2m tall & pots up to 7.5L) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £250 | or £9.98 charge.

* Tall Sized Boxes (Bare roots 1.2m & over) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £250 | or £24.99 charge.

* Pallets (Root balls, large pots 10L+, trees etc | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £350 | or £82 charge.

* Pleached Trees (Specialist Delivery) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £1500 | or £450 charge.