Contents
Description
Chamaecyparis Thyoides, commonly known as Atlantic white cedar or southern white cedar, is a species of cypress tree native to eastern North America, from Maine to Florida. It is a slow-growing evergreen tree that can reach up to 70 feet in height and 3 feet in diameter at maturity. The tree has a narrow, conical shape and a straight trunk with thin, flaky bark that peels off in long, narrow strips. Its leaves are scale-like and arranged in flattened sprays. Its cones are small, round, and woody, measuring about 0.4 inches in diameter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Cupressaceae |
| Genus | Chamaecyparis |
Appearance
The Atlantic white cedar is a visually striking tree, with a conical shape and a narrow, pointed top. Its leaves are scale-like and arranged in flattened sprays, creating a feathery appearance. The tree’s bark is thin and flaky, with a reddish-brown color that peels off in long, narrow strips. Its cones are small and round, measuring about 0.4 inches in diameter, and are woody with a brown color. The tree’s overall appearance makes it an attractive addition to any landscape.
Care Guide
The Atlantic white cedar requires moderate care to thrive. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 8. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The tree requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a year with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The tree prefers moist, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic.
- Sunlight: The tree requires full sun exposure to grow properly.
- Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Atlantic white cedar is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:
- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and browning of the tree’s leaves.
- Cedar apple rust: This disease can cause yellow spots on the tree’s leaves and stunted growth.
- Phytophthora root rot: This disease can cause wilting and death of the tree’s branches and roots.
Prevention measures include proper sanitation, regular pruning, and use of appropriate fungicides and insecticides.
Habitat
The Atlantic white cedar is native to eastern North America, from Maine to Florida. It grows in wetlands, bogs, and swamps, often in areas with poor drainage. The tree plays an important role in the ecosystem, providing habitat for various species of birds, mammals, and insects.
Question and Answer
- Q: Is the Atlantic white cedar a good choice for a small garden?
A: No, the tree can reach up to 70 feet in height and 3 feet in diameter at maturity, making it unsuitable for small gardens. - Q: Can the Atlantic white cedar tolerate salt spray?
A: Yes, the tree is tolerant of salt spray and can be planted in coastal areas. - Q: Does the Atlantic white cedar require pruning?
A: Yes, the tree requires regular pruning to maintain its shape and remove dead or diseased branches. - Q: Is the Atlantic white cedar a good choice for a windbreak?
A: Yes, the tree’s dense foliage and conical shape make it an effective windbreak.
Related Plants
- Chamaecyparis obtusa
- Chamaecyparis pisifera
- Chamaecyparis lawsoniana
- Cupressus arizonica
- Cupressus sempervirens
References
- “Chamaecyparis thyoides.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287253.
- “Atlantic White Cedar.” United States Department of Agriculture. https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/tree/chathy/all.html.
- “Chamaecyparis thyoides.” North Carolina State University. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/chamaecyparis-thyoides/.
