Quick answer: Northern white cedar (Thuja occidentalis) is native to 21 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seed, verified 04 Nov 2026.
Photo: Unknown photographer, Wikimedia Commons (PUBLIC DOMAIN)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun, Part Shade, Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Medium water, Dry-Moist, high drought tolerance |
| Soil | Moist, well-drained alkaline soils |
| Bloom | Bloom Apr |
| Height | 40-60 ft, up to 120 ft |
| Wildlife value | Food and cover for birds |
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (04 Nov 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 04 Nov 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Northern white cedar
Where is Northern white cedar native?
Northern white cedar (Thuja occidentalis) is native to 21 states across the Northeast, Midwest and South. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Northern white cedar bloom?
Northern white cedar blooms Apr. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Northern white cedar need?
Light: Sun, Part Shade, Shade. Water: Medium water, Dry-Moist, high drought tolerance. Soil: Moist, well-drained alkaline soils. Mature height: 40-60 ft, up to 120 ft.
Is Northern white cedar good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Food and cover for birds.
Is Northern white cedar deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Northern white cedar is drought-tolerant and tolerates shade.
Where can I buy real Northern white cedar seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seed that names the true species, last checked 04 Nov 2026. Look for the scientific name Thuja occidentalis on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Northern white cedar.
- Nannyberry Viburnum lentago
- Eastern white pine Pinus strobus
- Staghorn sumac Rhus typhina
- Common winterberry Ilex verticillata
- Bur oak Quercus macrocarpa
- White oak Quercus alba
Also listed under
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