shrubN. America Native

Whipcord Western Red Cedar

Name: Whipcord Western Red Cedar
Brand: Thuja
Availability: InStock

Thuja plicata 'Whipcord'

$79.99

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

60 inches

Width

60 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7

Water

Medium

Humidity

Prefers moderate to high

Lifespan

Long-lived

Native To

Species native to Western North America

Toxicity

Mildly toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Thuja plicata is a large, coniferous evergreen tree native to the Pacific Northwest, known for its aromatic, scale-like foliage and reddish-brown bark. 'Whipcord' is a unique dwarf cultivar with long, thread-like, weeping foliage that creates a mounding, fountain-like habit. The foliage turns an attractive bronze in winter.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Its primary value is its extraordinary texture and form. The long, drooping, cord-like foliage creates a soft, shaggy mound that is unlike any other common landscape plant, providing year-round architectural interest.

Its small, manageable size makes it an excellent choice for small gardens, containers, or as a focal point in a mixed border without overwhelming the space.

Like other arborvitae, it can provide shelter for small birds, especially during winter months. Its dense structure offers protection from predators and harsh weather.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Spring Hill Nursery

Bareroot

In Stock$79.99

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a location with morning sun and afternoon shade.
Ensure the soil is moist, well-drained, and humus-rich.
Dig a hole twice the width of the container.
Set the plant in the hole so the root flare is at soil level.
Backfill with soil and water deeply to settle.
Apply a 2-inch layer of organic mulch around the base.

Pro Tip

Provide consistent moisture and protection from harsh afternoon sun in hotter climates to prevent foliage from scorching or drying out.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly, especially during dry periods.
Provide good drainage to prevent root rot.
Mulch to conserve soil moisture.
Site where its unique form can be appreciated.

Don't

Do not let the soil dry out completely.
Avoid planting in heavy, compacted clay soil.
Don't expose to harsh, drying winter winds.
Avoid pruning, as it can ruin the natural weeping habit.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Pest Check

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Unique textural specimen in rock gardensEye-catching container plantSoft accent in mixed conifer beds

Companion Plants

Acer palmatum 'Dissectum' Heuchera 'Obsidian' Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola' Picea pungens 'Globosa' Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Whipcord Western Red Cedar questions

What zones can Whipcord Western Red Cedar grow in?

Whipcord Western Red Cedar is hardy in USDA Zones 5–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Whipcord Western Red Cedar deer resistant?

Yes — Whipcord Western Red Cedar is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Whipcord Western Red Cedar bloom?

Whipcord Western Red Cedar typically blooms in late spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Whipcord Western Red Cedar need full sun?

Whipcord Western Red Cedar does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.