Chamaecyparis thyoides (Atlantic White Cedar)

Chamaeycparis thyoides, commonly referred to as Atlantic white cedar (also spelled whitecedar or white-cedar), is an evergreen, aromatic tree native to a number of states along the Atlantic coast. Typically upright and columnar in structure, though a bit wider at maturity, Atlantic white-cedar usually grows to about 60-80' tall and 30-40' wide; relatively fast-growing and tolerant of very wet conditions, Chamaecyparis thyoides is noted for its consistent, scaly green foliage. Feathery, scale-like foliage is similar to that of arborvitae in shades of bright and darker green.

Tolerant of a wide variety of soil types and capable of growing in areas with occasional flooding and salty soils (though not very tolerant of flooding with salt or brackish water), Chamaecyparis thyoides is an excellent choice for specimen planting or for large screens. With a ton of ecological appeal, Atlantic white-cedar is a host of several caterpillar species, including the larvae of the Hessel's hairstreak butterfly (Callophrys hesseli), and is edible, with small berry-like fruiting structures feeding birds and woodland animals.