Northern White Cedar Seeds (Thuja occidentalis) - Zone 2-3 - 200+ Seeds

Thuja occidentalis, also known as Northern White Cedar or Eastern Arborvitae, is a native evergreen conifer of Eastern Canada and the Northeastern United States. This monoecious tree typically grows 40 to 50 feet tall with a narrow, almost columnar crown. It's not uncommon for mature trees to reach 70 to 80 feet in height under optimal conditions. The trunk is often divided into two or more secondary trunks of equal size, with a characteristic reddish-brown, furrowed bark that may turn gray as the tree matures. The foliage is scalelike, arranged in dense, flat sprays, and known for its rich vitamin C content.

Interesting in its ecological and cultural significance, the Northern White Cedar thrives in wet forests and is particularly abundant in coniferous swamps. It's notable for its longevity, with some trees living over 800 years. In traditional Ojibwe culture, this tree is highly regarded and used in crafts, construction, and medicine. Its wood is also used for rustic fencing, posts, shingles, log cabins, and in the construction of canoes. The essential oil from Thuja occidentalis has been utilized in cleansers, disinfectants, and insecticides.

In landscaping, Thuja occidentalis is popular as an ornamental tree for screens and hedges, with over 300 cultivars available, showing a great variation in color, shape, and size. Some notable cultivars include 'Smaragd', 'Danica', and 'Holmstrup'. This tree is adaptable to a range of soil types, thriving in both uplands and lowlands, and prefers a constant moisture supply for optimal growth.

Cold Hardiness Zone: 3
Seed Source: MI, USA (Zone 5)
Cold Stratification: 1-4 months
Planting Instructions: Sow seeds in moist, well-drained soil. Ensure they are lightly covered with soil and kept consistently moist. Seedlings should be protected from extreme weather and strong winds. Maintain partial sunlight exposure for optimal growth.