Northern White Cedar Basics

Known by a variety of names in the United States, the northern white cedar basics run true throughout the world. The most common names are eastern white cedar, swamp cedar and Atlantic red cedar. No matter what you call it, this tree has had a significant impact on several manufacturing industries.

Conservation uses

There are many cultivators of northern white cedar. Over 120 of these are used as ornamental shrubs and trees. They are selected for their hardiness and color as well as their tolerance to heat, which is rare in a cedar tree. The species has an origin in Europe, dating back in the 16th century. These trees are now cultivated there.

Wildlife

Northern white cedar also provides an important habitat to many animals. It is used for shelter and nests, and white tail deer use the trees especially for shelter during long, hard winters. This tree grows in the southern part of Canada and northern part of the United States.

Industrial uses

Northern red cedar is a very light colored wood that is great for creating durable fence posts and shingles. It is also used to make paneling, lagging and barrels. Cedar leaf oil is obtained from the leaves of the tree and is used to make various perfumes and medicinal products. Some native people even made soup from the small twigs. The wood is resistant to both rotting and termites.

The northern white and red cedar trees are very useful, whether in industry or in the wild. They have contributed much to society since the days of Native Americans.