Western Red Cedar ‘Zebrina’ 40/60cm (3L)

Variegated Western Red Cedar *Thuja plicata* ‘Zebrina’ is a gorgeous evergreen that adds colour and structure to gardens throughout the year. This beautiful tree catches the eye with its distinctive foliage – sprays of flat, scale-like leaves in green and golden yellow that form an attractive striped appearance. With its medium to fast growth rate and ability to reach considerable heights, it’s ideal for gardeners wanting to create a striking feature in their outdoor space.

‘Zebrina’ usually reaches around 15-20 metres in height when mature, spreading to about 4-6 metres wide. Its upright, columnar habit makes it suitable for medium to large gardens, where it works brilliantly as a focal point or an attractive privacy screen. The colourful foliage provides interest all year round, looking especially lovely in winter when many other plants are bare.

This tree excels at adding height and visual impact to gardens. Its tall, narrow shape naturally draws attention upward, creating vertical interest in garden designs. The golden markings help brighten darker corners and catch the light beautifully, adding warmth and brightness even during dull weather.

Many gardeners pick ‘Zebrina’ for its decorative appeal combined with easy care requirements. After it’s settled in, it tolerates various soil conditions and handles urban pollution well, making it suitable for city gardens. It’s also generally free from serious pest and disease problems, so maintenance stays simple.

This cedar fits into many different garden styles. It makes a wonderful specimen tree, forms an impressive hedge or screen, or provides a backdrop for other plants. You might use it to highlight an entrance or give structure to large planted areas.

For gardeners wanting year-round interest and golden highlights in their gardens, Variegated Western Red Cedar *Thuja plicata* ‘Zebrina’ is a superb choice. Its beautiful foliage, stately form, and straightforward care make it a worthwhile addition to any outdoor space, particularly for those wanting maximum visual impact.

Caring for *Thuja plicata* ‘Zebrina’ is quite straightforward. Plant it in a spot that gets full sun to partial shade – full sun will help maintain the best foliage colour. It prefers moist, well-drained soil but can adapt to various soil types. Water regularly when it’s first planted to help it establish. Once settled, it’s fairly drought-tolerant but will appreciate deep watering during prolonged dry spells. You don’t need to feed it often – a light application of balanced fertiliser in spring is enough. Pruning isn’t necessary to maintain its shape, but you can trim it if you want to control its size or shape it into a hedge. Keep an eye out for any signs of browning or dieback, which could indicate stress or disease. ‘Zebrina’ is hardy in most parts of Britain but may appreciate some shelter from strong winds in very exposed sites.

**Ultimate height**
Higher than 12 metres

**Time to ultimate height**
20–50 years

**Ultimate spread**
4–8 metres