Whipcord Arborvitae, Western Arborvitae 'Whipcord', Western Red Cedar 'Whipcord'
Thuja plicata ‘Whipcord’ is a distinctive and ornamental evergreen, perfect for adding a unique touch to the landscape. Its adaptability, dwarf size, and unusual foliage make it a popular choice for gardeners seeking something different for their garden designs.
Thuja plicata ‘Whipcord’ is a unique and ornamental cultivar of the Western Red Cedar, distinguished by its unusual form and texture. It stands out with its distinctive, mop-like appearance, characterized by long, slender, drooping branches that resemble cords or whips. Its foliage is a deep green, turning bronze in winter.
Native: This cultivar belongs to Thuja plicata, a species native to the western regions of North America, particularly along the Pacific coast.
Plant Type and Habit: This evergreen conifer has an unusual growth habit compared to other Thuja varieties, with an upright, rounded form and weeping branches.
Size: ‘Whipcord’ is a dwarf variety, growing to about 4-5 feet tall and wide (120-150 cm), making it suitable for smaller garden spaces.
Foliage: The foliage consists of thin, cord-like leaves that hang down from the branches, giving the plant a unique texture and appearance.
Bark: The bark is fibrous, reddish-brown, and furrowed, adding textural interest to the plant.
Uses: Ideal for rock gardens, container plantings, and as a specimen plant. Its unique form and texture make it a striking addition to any garden.
Award: Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
Hardiness: Hardy in USDA zones 5-7, it is adaptable to a range of environmental conditions.
Wildlife: Provides limited shelter for small wildlife.
Toxicity: Generally considered non-toxic to humans and animals.
Deer and Rabbit: May exhibits some resistance to browsing by deer and rabbits.
Invasiveness: This cultivar is not considered invasive and typically stays within its planted boundaries.
Benefits: Offers a unique aesthetic appeal with its unusual foliage and form. It is easy to maintain and can be a delightful addition to various garden settings.
Light: Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Full sun promotes denser foliage and healthier growth.
Soil: Adaptable to a range of soil types but thrives best in moist, well-drained, acidic to neutral soil.
Water: Regular watering is crucial, especially in dry conditions and for newly planted trees. Established trees have moderate drought tolerance.
Fertilizer: Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for evergreens. Avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to excessive growth and potential damage.
Pruning: Minimal pruning required. Prune for shaping or size control in late winter or early spring. Avoid heavy pruning into old wood.
Mulch: Provide a generous root zone mulch.
Propagation: Typically propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer.
Hardiness |
5 - 7 |
---|---|
Heat Zones |
6 - 8 |
Climate Zones | 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, A3 |
Plant Type | Conifers, Shrubs |
Plant Family | Cupressaceae |
Genus | Thuja |
Common names | Western Red Cedar, Arborvitae |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest | Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter |
Height | 4' - 5' (120cm - 150cm) |
Spread | 4' - 5' (120cm - 150cm) |
Spacing | 48" - 60" (120cm - 150cm) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Average |
Soil Type | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Showy, Evergreen, Plant of Merit |
Tolerance | Clay Soil |
Attracts | Birds |
Garden Uses | Beds And Borders, Patio And Containers |
Garden Styles | Informal and Cottage, Gravel and Rock Garden |
Hardiness |
5 - 7 |
---|---|
Heat Zones |
6 - 8 |
Climate Zones | 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, A3 |
Plant Type | Conifers, Shrubs |
Plant Family | Cupressaceae |
Genus | Thuja |
Common names | Western Red Cedar, Arborvitae |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest | Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter |
Height | 4' - 5' (120cm - 150cm) |
Spread | 4' - 5' (120cm - 150cm) |
Spacing | 48" - 60" (120cm - 150cm) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Average |
Soil Type | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Showy, Evergreen, Plant of Merit |
Tolerance | Clay Soil |
Attracts | Birds |
Garden Uses | Beds And Borders, Patio And Containers |
Garden Styles | Informal and Cottage, Gravel and Rock Garden |
How many Thuja plicata ‘Whipcord’ (Western Arborvitae) do I need for my garden?
Plant | Quantity | |
---|---|---|
Thuja plicata ‘Whipcord’ (Western Arborvitae) | N/A | Buy Plants |
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Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
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