Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata 'Atrovirens') Hedge Plants Description

Thuja plicata 'Atrovirens' commonly known as Western Red Cedar, is a popular conifer alternative to Leylandii for hedging due to its slightly slower growth rate and ease of maintenance. It has vibrant mid to dark green foliage which is glossier than other conifers and is produced in attractive sprays. The leaves are also aromatic when crushed, giving off a sweetly fragrant scent.

Western Red Cedar is still considered fast-growing at 40/60cm per annum, but unlike Leylandii, can be cut back into old wood without risk of browning, making it much easier to maintain. As with other conifers, Thuja plicata 'Atrovirens' can also produce small cones, although it is the verdant, dense foliage for which it is most noted and favoured. It forms an excellent evergreen screen for privacy but also affords protection from noise and wind. In addition, Thuja plicata 'Atrovirens' has been proven to be highly effective in absorbing pollution particles from passing traffic, making it an ideal hedge for use in heavily trafficked areas as well as suburban and country settings.

Western Red Cedar grows in sun or shade and in any well drained soil, see our entire hedging plants for shade collection here. The tall stature and delightful green shades of Thuja plicata 'Atrovirens' make it the ideal background to smaller, colourful plants, enhancing their colours and making them stand out from their surroundings. See also our range of hedging with colourful foliage.

Western Red Cedar is highly fragrant and is known to exhibit scents similar to pineapple. Crush the leaves of Thuja plicata 'Atrovirens' between your hands and enjoy the aromatic scent, as this process enhances its delightful aroma. If conifers aren't for you but fragrance is on your wish list, view our complete collection of Fragrant Hedging Plants.

In addition to Thuja plicata 'Atrovirens, we have a selection of other conifer hedging plants or alternatively you can view our fantastic range of evergreen hedging plants to find your ideal evergreen variety.

Extra Tall Root Balls - Minimum Order Quantity and Delivery

Please note that there is a minimum order requirement of 5 plants for the extra tall root balls due to the specialised delivery required. Due to their extreme size and weight, these hedging plants need to be transported via articulated lorry and require a forklift to remove from the truck and into place for planting. These products are indicated by a forklift icon on the listings.

You’ll see our recommended planting densities for each size and root type listed next to the products below. We suggest that you use these as a guide, taking into consideration how long you’re willing to wait to see your finished hedge. As a rough indication bare roots can be planted at anything from 3 to 7 per metre and cell grown between 4 and 6 - the higher densities here would need to be planted in a double staggered row or zig-zag.

For more information on planting distances please see our planting density advice section.. Prices shown are the price per plant unless otherwise stated.

General hedge trimming should be done twice a year, in Spring and again in early Autumn.

Free delivery is available on all orders providing they meet the minimum spend criteria for the size of box or pallet. Pallet deliveries and large box deliveries for tall plants are indicated by icons on the product table listings. Delivery costs and minimum order details for each packaging type are as follows:


There are some exceptions to the standard delivery pricing structure, which relate to deliveries to more remote areas, overseas, or extremely tall plants requiring specialist delivery - for more information see the Delivery Information Page. (Please note that due to new Brexit rules, we are currently unable to export to both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.)

Delivery Time - Please note that due to high demand, delivery times are currently 7-14 days. (Some trees will be 7-14 days delivery as standard - see product pages for delivery info). We are working through existing orders as quickly as possible but can now deliver new orders within this timescale.

It's Convenient - no need to wait in all day to sign, we don't need a signature (the odd, larger order may require a signature but will be delivered at a mutually agreeable time)

It's Tried & Tested - we use only couriers who have shown consistency in their efficiency & care

* Please note that delivery costs are based on the final order amount in your cart after any discounts have been applied.

Hedges Direct 12 Month Plant Guarantee

Our plants are guaranteed for 12 months after delivery subject to specific criteria. Visit our Hedges Direct Plant Guarantee Page for full details.