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Description
Thuja Plicata, commonly known as Western Red Cedar, is an evergreen tree native to North America. It is widely distributed from Alaska to California and eastward to Montana. The tree is known for its towering height, reaching up to 70 meters tall, with a trunk diameter of up to 7 meters. Thuja Plicata is a popular species in landscaping and is often used as a hedgerow or privacy screen. It is also used in the production of timber and shingles.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Cupressaceae |
| Genus | Thuja |
Appearance
The Thuja Plicata tree has a conical shape with a straight trunk and a narrow crown. The foliage is made up of scaly, evergreen leaves that are yellow-green in color. The leaves are arranged in opposite pairs and have a distinctive, aromatic scent when crushed. The tree produces small, brown cones that are about 1 cm long and ripen in the fall. The bark of the Thuja Plicata is reddish-brown and has a fibrous, stringy texture.
Care Guide
Thuja Plicata requires well-draining soil and prefers full sun to part shade. The tree is relatively drought-tolerant, but it is important to water it during dry periods. Fertilization is not necessary, but a slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring. Thuja Plicata is hardy in USDA zones 5-9 and can tolerate temperatures as low as -15°C. Pruning is not necessary, but the tree can be trimmed to maintain its shape.
Common Pests & Diseases
Thuja Plicata is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. The most common pests include spider mites, bagworms, and aphids. Spider mites can be controlled with insecticidal soap, while bagworms and aphids can be removed manually. The most common diseases include root rot, canker, and blight. Preventive measures such as proper watering and pruning can help prevent these diseases.
Habitat
Thuja Plicata is commonly found in moist, temperate forests and along stream banks in North America. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The tree is also found in parks and gardens, where it is used for landscaping and as a hedgerow.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Thuja Plicata a fast-growing tree?
A: Yes, Thuja Plicata is a fast-growing tree and can grow up to 1.5 meters per year in optimal conditions.
Q: Can Thuja Plicata tolerate salt spray?
A: No, Thuja Plicata is not salt-tolerant and should not be planted near coastal areas.
Q: How often should Thuja Plicata be watered?
A: Thuja Plicata should be watered deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions and soil type.
Q: Can Thuja Plicata be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Thuja Plicata can be propagated from softwood or hardwood cuttings taken in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Thuja Occidentalis
- Thuja Orientalis
- Thuja Standishii
- Thuja Koraiensis
References
- “Thuja Plicata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c433.
- “Western Red Cedar.” United States Department of Agriculture, www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/tree/thupli/all.html.
- “Thuja Plicata.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/24620/Thuja-plicata/Details.
