Eastern Red Cedar

Description: Eastern Red Cedars typically have a conical to columnar shape when young, maturing into a more irregular or broad-rounded form. They feature dense, scale-like foliage that ranges in color from dark green to bluish-green, often with a slightly grayish cast. Female trees produce small, bluish-gray berry-like cones known as "juniper berries," which are often used by wildlife as a food source. The bark of mature trees is reddish-brown and exfoliates in thin strips, revealing reddish-orange inner bark.

Size: Eastern Red Cedars vary in size depending on environmental conditions and growing conditions. They can range from small shrubs to medium-sized trees. On average, they typically reach heights of 30 to 50 feet (9 to 15 meters) with a spread of 8 to 20 feet (2.4 to 6 meters) at maturity. However, some specimens may grow taller under optimal conditions, while others may remain smaller in less favorable environments.

Best Growing Zones: Eastern Red Cedars are well-adapted to a wide range of growing conditions and are found throughout much of eastern and central North America. They are particularly well-suited to USDA hardiness zones 2 through 9. They tolerate a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soil, as well as a range of moisture levels, from dry to moist. Eastern Red Cedars are also tolerant of urban pollution and salt spray, making them suitable for planting in urban and coastal areas.

Maintenance: Eastern Red Cedars are relatively low-maintenance once established. They prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade. They are drought-tolerant once established but benefit from regular watering, especially during dry periods, to encourage healthy growth. Prune Eastern Red Cedars as needed to remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches and to maintain a tidy appearance. Avoid planting them in areas prone to cedar-apple rust, a fungal disease that can affect Eastern Red Cedars and certain apple trees.

Landscape Use: Eastern Red Cedars are valued for their ornamental value, wildlife habitat, and windbreak and screening capabilities. They are often used in landscapes as specimen trees, privacy screens, or windbreaks. They also provide food and cover for wildlife, making them a valuable addition to wildlife-friendly gardens and naturalized areas. Additionally, Eastern Red Cedars are used in landscaping to help stabilize soil on slopes or prevent erosion in coastal areas.