Burke's Backyard > Fact Sheets > Upright Western Red Cedar Hedge

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Upright Western Red Cedar Hedge

In the Garden > Trees and Palms

Don looked at the upright, narrow-growing form of the western red cedar. Thuja plicata 'Fastigiata' is a small tree to about 10m (30-40') tall and 2m (6') wide. It has a narrow, columnar growth habit, short branches and attractive deep green foliage. It grows best in the cooler areas of Australia.

This cultivar makes a very attractive hedge and is ideal for screening in a narrow area. It is not as vigorous as the Leyland cypress and it is easier to keep under control. Some conifers have a lot of dead, brown material within the foliage. Thuja plicata 'Fastigiata' stays green inside the plant, so it is less likely to ignite in the case of a fire. Don thinks this is a much better choice than Leyland cypress, particularly for the cooler zones.

Further information

Order from your local nursery. Expect to pay $33 for a 250mm (10") pot and $55 for a 300mm (12") pot.

(Tip: don't be put off by the appearance of the young plants. Although they are 'ugly ducklings' they grow into beautiful trees.)

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