An aromatic evergreen often referred to as a “Red Juniper.” It has a narrow, compact crown, a trunk that is often angled, dark green foliage, and small blue “berries” that are actually round cones with one or two seeds inside. Resistant to extremes of drought, heat, and cold, the Eastern Red Cedar is the most widely distributed eastern conifer. The aromatic wood is used for fence posts, cedar chests, cabinets, and carvings, and was almost exclusively the source of wood for pencils at one time. The Eastern Red Cedar is grown for Christmas trees, and the juicy berries are eaten by many kinds of wildlife. Height: 40-60’ Spread: 20-30’
Forest, Grassland
Native to eastern North America from southeastern Canada to the Gulf of Mexico and east of the Great Plains.
Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Abundant
Diurnal
Eastern red cedar is a pioneer species, meaning that it is one of the first trees to repopulate disturbed sites. Outside of its native range it is considered an invasive species. Its berries are an important source of food for birds in winter and is a favorite of Cedar Waxwings.
Least Concern
