Whipcord Western Red Cedar - Holiday

Light Needs

Full Sun

(At Least 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

4 - 5 Feet

Mature Spread

4 - 5 Feet

Growing Zones

5 to 8

• Full Sun (At Least 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)
• Mature Height 4 - 5 Feet
• Mature Spread 4 - 5 Feet
• Growing Zones 5 - 8

Holiday Whipcord Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata ‘Whipcord’) draws attention with its drooping, cord-like foliage and softly rounded, mop-like form. It stands about 4 to 5 feet tall when mature, growing slowly but steadily, and its glossy green needles pick up attractive bronze tones in winter. Originally discovered as a chance seedling, this small conifer is prized for adding unique texture and gentle movement to gardens and container displays. Perfect for cooler regions, it thrives in partial shade or full sun, provided it has consistently moist soil.

A live Whipcord Cedar is an appealing alternative to synthetic holiday décor, allowing you to bring home a bit of the Pacific Northwest’s natural charm. After the season passes, you can plant it outdoors for continued enjoyment rather than discarding it like a cut tree. Beyond minimizing waste, you also get to experience the fresh, resinous scent that only a living evergreen can offer. It’s an easy way to incorporate year-round greenery that transitions seamlessly from indoor display to outdoor focal point.

Holiday Whipcord Western Red Cedar Care

Keep your Whipcord Cedar in a cool, bright location from January to the final frost date, watering gently to maintain slightly moist soil. Watch out for dry indoor air—occasional misting helps preserve needle color. If any stray or discolored branches appear, prune them lightly to maintain a tidy shape.

When outdoor temperatures remain above freezing, gradually introduce your cedar to brighter conditions outside for a week or two. Then, dig a hole about twice the root ball’s width in a spot with partial shade or morning sun, and enrich the soil with organic matter to help retain moisture. Water deeply after planting, add mulch to lock in humidity, and enjoy this slow-growing, eye-catching conifer for many seasons to come.