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Thuja plicata 'Zebrina'
golden western red cedar
Cultivar selected in horticulture; species native to Pacific Northwest and coastal British Columbia, sea level to 7,000 feet (2,100 m)Learn more
Overview
Thuja plicata 'Zebrina' is a large, pyramidal cultivar of western red cedar with cream-yellow to golden variegated foliage. Trees reach 40–60 feet (12–18 m) tall and 12–18 feet (3.7–5.5 m) wide in cultivation; growth rate is 12–24 inches (30–60 cm) per year — somewhat slower than the green species. The habit is broadly conical to pyramidal. Foliage consists of flat, fan-shaped sprays of overlapping scale-like leaves; the outer portions are cream-yellow to golden-yellow, the inner portions dark green, creating irregular alternating bands that give the cultivar its name (from the striped pattern). Foliage emits the same sweet, spicy aromatic scent as the species when crushed. The variegated pattern is most visible from a distance; the tree appears gold-tipped overall. Color intensity is highest in full sun. Bark is reddish-brown, fibrous, and peeling in strips.
Native Range
Thuja plicata is native to the Pacific Northwest and coastal British Columbia, from sea level to 7,000 feet (2,100 m). The cultivar 'Zebrina' was selected in horticulture. The species is native to the Pacific Northwest.Suggested Uses
Planted as a specimen and large-scale screen in parks, institutional grounds, and large residential properties, spaced 12–15 feet (3.7–4.6 m) from adjacent plants. Full sun maximizes the golden variegation. The cream-yellow to golden outer foliage provides contrast against dark green conifers in mixed plantings. Eventual height of 40–60 feet (12–18 m) limits use to sites with adequate vertical clearance.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height40' - 60'
Width/Spread12' - 18'
Reaches mature size in approximately 20 years
Colors
Bloom Information
Male and female cones are on the same plant (monoecious). Male cones are tiny, dark red-brown, at shoot tips, releasing pollen in March–April. Female cones are small, 0.3–0.5 inch (8–12 mm), urn-shaped, ripening from green to brown in autumn.Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
dark red-brown (male cones)Foliage Description
cream-yellow to golden-yellow outer portions, dark green inner portionsGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 4-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Water weekly during the first two growing seasons; established trees are moderately drought tolerant once rooted in Pacific Northwest conditions, though best growth occurs with consistent moisture. Prefers deep, moist, well-drained soils. Golden variegation is most intense in full sun; shade reduces the cream-yellow color significantly, shifting foliage toward predominantly green. Grows on both sides of the Cascades with adequate moisture. Eventual height of 40–60 feet (12–18 m) requires siting with substantial clearance from structures and power lines.Pruning
No pruning required for natural form. The broadly conical form develops naturally. Shear for formal hedges in late spring before growth hardens. Avoid cutting into old wood without live foliage. Remove dead branches at any time.Pruning Schedule
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late springsummer