Thuja Plicata Atrovirens Western Red Cedar

Thuja plicata Atrovirens is a distinguished evergreen conifer valued for its compact form, enduring colour, and proven garden performance. With a dense, upright structure and refined shape, it provides both aesthetic elegance and dependable shelter. Its glossy green foliage and strong winter resilience make it an ideal choice for hedging and evergreen screening, or formal planting schemes.

This variety of the Western Red Cedar develops into a tall, tight pyramid with evenly spaced, ascending branches. The slightly narrower habit compared to the species gives it a refined architectural quality. The foliage is a rich, glossy green and remains vibrant throughout the year, even during cold winters. Its evergreen character and controlled growth make it both practical and visually striking in structured landscapes.

In cultivation since the late 19th century, Thuja plicata Atrovirens has earned a reputation for reliability and enduring beauty. It maintains its neat outline naturally, requiring minimal maintenance beyond periodic trimming to enhance density or define form.  The Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society further confirms its excellence and dependable performance in diverse settings.

Dimensions

• Height (10 years): Approx. 4 m
• Spread (10 years): Approx. 1.5 m
• Growth Rate: Steady, moderate growth

Thuja Atrovirens upright, conical shape and moderate pace make it manageable yet fast enough to establish effective privacy or structure.

Uses in Garden and Landscape:

Thuja plicata Atrovirens is one of the finest conifers for creating dense, evergreen hedging or formal screens. It forms an excellent backdrop for borders, lawns, or architectural plantings, offering texture and year-round colour. Its narrow habit also makes it suitable for smaller gardens or tighter spaces where width must be contained.

• Superb choice for evergreen hedging and screening
• Excellent as a specimen tree or formal boundary
• Ideal for structured gardens and classical designs
• Well-suited to windbreaks and privacy planting

Care & Maintenance:

• Pruning: Light trim once a year to maintain shape and density.
• Position: Prefers full sun or partial shade.
• Soil: Fertile, moist, well-drained soil; tolerates a wide range of conditions.
• Hardiness: Excellent winter hardiness; withstands frost and wind.
• Watering: Moderate during establishment; minimal thereafter.

Regular formative pruning will help maintain a tight, uniform outline. Its tough constitution ensures long life with minimal intervention, making it a reliable feature in both traditional and contemporary landscapes.