ALASKA CEDAR
Callitropsis nootkatensis
FAMILY Cupressaceae
SYNONYMS
Xanthocyparis nootkatensis
Cupressus nootkatensis
ADDITIONAL COMMON NAMES
NOOTKA CYPRESS
YELLOW CEDAR
See: all Callitropsisor Champion
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by J. Reimer, M. Ritter
GENERAL INFO
This tree is known for its elegant, weeping branches that create a graceful, cascading effect. Its dark green foliage is dense and finely textured, providing excellent year-round coverage. The tree's narrow, pyramidal shape makes it a striking focal point in urban landscapes. It thrives in cooler climates and can tolerate a variety of soil conditions. This tree also offers a pleasant, subtle fragrance that adds to its appeal. Perfect for adding vertical interest, it is often used in parks and large gardens where space allows it to reach its full height.
Native range: Western North AmericaSchoolyard Use: This tree’s scale-like leaves and peltate cone structures can provide an introduction to conifer anatomy and start discussions about ethnobotany and climate change. This tree was used extensively by indigenous peoples throughout its range for canoe paddles, baskets, and thread. The tree is also being adversely impacted by climate change. Due to thinner snowpacks from warming global temperatures, stands of Alaska Yellow Cedar have been more susceptible to freezing. This has caused large-scale dieoffs in many Yellow Cedar communities.
Native range: Western North AmericaSchoolyard Use: This tree’s scale-like leaves and peltate cone structures can provide an introduction to conifer anatomy and start discussions about ethnobotany and climate change. This tree was used extensively by indigenous peoples throughout its range for canoe paddles, baskets, and thread. The tree is also being adversely impacted by climate change. Due to thinner snowpacks from warming global temperatures, stands of Alaska Yellow Cedar have been more susceptible to freezing. This has caused large-scale dieoffs in many Yellow Cedar communities.
TREE CHARACTERISTICS
Tree Shape: ConicalFoliage Type: EvergreenMaximum Tree Height: 80 feetCanopy Width: 25 feetGrowth Rate: ~12-24 in/yearLeaf Arrangement and Leaf Form: Opposite, SimpleLeaf Shape: Scale-likeLeaf color: Bluish Green or Silver or Gray GreenCones: FragrantCones: Small Brown, Purple or Mostly Green ConePollen time: FallBark Color: Light Green or Light Gray, Exfoliating, FurrowedLitter Type: Dry Fruit
SITE CONDITIONS
Recommended Planting Area: Greater than 7'Schoolyard Trees: YesWater Use Rating: MediumSunset Climate Zone: 2 - 6, 15 - 17Shade Tolerance: NoUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9Soil Texture: Loam or Sand or ClaySoil pH: Very Acidic to NeutralSalt Tolerance: Moderate
CONSIDERATIONS
Branch Strength: MediumRoot Damage Potential: ModeratePotential health issues: AllergyBiogenic Emissions: LowWildlife interactions: Attracts squirrelsDisease and Pest susceptibility: Phytophthora, Root Rot, Rust and Beetle Borers, Spider MitesUtility Friendly: No
External Resources
CITE THIS TREE
"SelecTree. UFEI. "Callitropsis nootkatensis Tree Record." 1995-2025. Cal
Poly State University, San Luis Obispo. Accessed on May 28, 2025."
< https://selectree.calpoly.edu/tree-detail/331 >
< https://selectree.calpoly.edu/tree-detail/331 >
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