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Thuja plicata 'Whipcord'
15L pot • Supplied approximately 90cm tall
Plant Highlights: Unique cascading foliage • Evergreen year-round interest • Soft cord-like branches • Compact, architectural habit • Excellent for borders and containers
Thuja plicata 'Whipcord' is a distinctive evergreen conifer prized for its unusual, rope-like foliage that cascades gracefully from a compact central crown. The rich green branches create a soft, fountain-like appearance throughout the growing season, often developing attractive bronze tones during colder winter weather.
Its sculptural habit makes it an excellent specimen for contemporary gardens, gravel planting and decorative containers. Slow-growing and naturally tidy, it provides year-round structure with very little maintenance.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Thuja plicata 'Whipcord' |
| Common Name | Whipcord Western Red Cedar |
| Plant Type | Evergreen conifer |
| Foliage | Soft, pendulous, cord-like evergreen foliage that may bronze in winter |
| Seasonal Interest | Evergreen foliage with attractive winter colour |
| Growth Habit | Compact, rounded to fountain-shaped with cascading branches |
| Position | Full sun or partial shade |
| Soil | Fertile, moist but well-drained soil |
| Mature Height | Approximately 1–1.5m |
| Mature Spread | Approximately 1–1.5m |
| Hardiness | Hardy in Irish gardens. Performs best in well-drained soil and benefits from regular watering during establishment. |
Plant in full sun or partial shade. It grows well in sheltered or moderately exposed positions where its distinctive form can be appreciated.
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a healthy root system. Once established, water during prolonged dry spells, particularly if grown in a container.
Grow in fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil. Avoid prolonged waterlogging while ensuring the soil does not dry out completely during extended warm periods.
This evergreen conifer is hardy throughout Ireland. A layer of mulch around the base helps retain soil moisture and supports healthy root development, particularly during establishment.
Pruning is rarely required. Simply remove any dead, damaged or wayward shoots in late winter or early spring to maintain its natural cascading shape.
The supplied height refers to the plant at the time of sale and not its mature size. 'Whipcord' is naturally slow growing and develops its distinctive cascading habit without the need for clipping.

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