Botanical name: Thuja occidentalis. a Zone 3 tolerant plant growing best in full sun to partial shade, and reaching 20-40′ tall/10-20′ wide. Frequently referred to as  Arborvitae, (Tree of Life) because the Native Americans and early European explorers used the foliage  – which is rich in vitamin C – to treat scurvy.

White Cedar is a commonly occurring tree of the northern forests, where several species of birds feast on the fruits or use the dense branches for cover. Since it is most often associated with cool, moist, nutrient-rich sites, White Cedar may need extra care in southern MN areas.

Flower buds form in autumn and expand the following spring. Cones are full grown by mid-August, ripen in August and September.  Woody scales of mature female cones enclose double-winged seeds which are released the year after development.