Chamaecyparis thyoides (Atlantic White Cedar)

The signature conifer of the Pine Barrens wetlands, Atlantic white cedar is a foundational species for acidic swamp and bog restoration - a genuinely rare native evergreen suited to consistently saturated, water-logged soils where few other conifers survive.

Species Overview

Chamaecyparis thyoides, or Atlantic white cedar, is an evergreen conifer native to the coastal wetlands of eastern North America. It typically grows 40 to 60 feet tall and features a narrow, columnar form with soft, scale-like foliage and small, rounded cones. This tree thrives in acidic, water-saturated soils and is an important species in swamp and bog ecosystems. Its durable, rot-resistant wood has historically been used in construction.

Application

• Swamp and bog restoration - a foundational canopy species in acidic wetland ecosystems
• Rain garden and poorly-drained-site plantings
• Wildlife habitat - dense evergreen cover important for numerous species
• Screen and accent plantings on consistently wet, acidic sites

Growing Conditions / Specification Data

• Light: Full Sun
• Soil/Moisture Tolerance: Acidic, water-saturated soils; swamps and bogs
• Plant Type: Tree
• Mature Height: 25-50 ft. (existing records show 40-60 ft.; see flags)
• Fall Color: Insignificant/None - evergreen
• Bloom Color / Period: Insignificant/None - conifer, not a flowering species
• Wetland Indicator Status: OBL (Obligate Wetland)
• Native Range: Southern Maine to northern Florida and west to southern Mississippi, in a narrow coastal band
• Hydrology: Moist-Wet
• Root Depth: Shallow (Under 12 in.) (comparatively shallow root system, occasionally toppled in wet years without windbreak protection)
• Salinity Tolerance: None
• Growth Rate: Slow (extended establishment timeline; stems reach 10 ft. in 7-10 years)
• Drought Tolerance: Low
• Flood Tolerance: High - Often found on sites that experience seasonal flooding up to 1-2 ft., though drier in summer; trees also occur in swamps with perpetual standing water, typically rooted on mounds just elevated enough that the trunk base dries out occasionally.
• Shade Tolerance: Intermediate
• Growth Habit: Upright - narrow, columnar form
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-8
• Deer Resistance: Yes (Rarely Damaged)
• Pollinator Value: None significant - wind-pollinated conifer