“Cedar bushes” are popular evergreen plants, valued for their year-round greenery, diverse forms, and texture in garden designs. While many plants are informally called “cedar bushes,” most are not true cedars. This guide explores the various types commonly known by this name.
Understanding “Cedar Bushes”
Botanically, true cedars belong to the genus Cedrus, which are large coniferous trees. However, the term “cedar bush” broadly refers to various coniferous shrubs, primarily from the Juniperus genus (junipers) and the Thuja genus (arborvitae). These plants are widely called “cedar bushes” in nurseries and homes due to shared characteristics like aromatic wood or similar appearance.
True Cedars that Can Be Shrub-like
While most true cedars (Cedrus) are majestic trees, some dwarf or slow-growing cultivars offer a shrub-like form suitable for smaller landscapes. These cultivars retain classic cedar characteristics, such as clusters of needles and distinctive cones. Their slower growth rates allow them to be maintained as large shrubs or small trees.
Examples include the ‘Feelin’ Blue’ deodar cedar (Cedrus deodara ‘Feelin’ Blue’), a broad, weeping shrub with blue-green foliage. The Atlas cedar (Cedrus atlantica) also has compact forms, such as ‘Horstmann’, which grows into a dense, conical shrub. These cultivars provide unique textures and colors.
Common “Cedar Bush” Types: Junipers
Junipers (Juniperus) are common plants referred to as “cedar bushes,” offering a wide range of forms and sizes. Their foliage varies from sharp, needle-like leaves on younger growth to softer, scale-like leaves on mature branches. Many cultivars also produce small, berry-like cones, often blue or purple.
Junipers come in diverse growth habits, including low-spreading groundcovers, mounding shrubs, and upright columnar forms. ‘Blue Star’ juniper (Juniperus squamata ‘Blue Star’) is popular for its dense, mounding habit and striking silvery-blue, needle-like foliage. ‘Old Gold’ juniper (Juniperus x media ‘Old Gold’) provides vibrant golden-yellow, scale-like foliage in a spreading form.
For upright selections, ‘Skyrocket’ juniper (Juniperus scopulorum ‘Skyrocket’) grows in a narrow, columnar shape, ideal for tight spaces or vertical accents. ‘Wichita Blue’ juniper (Juniperus scopulorum ‘Wichita Blue’) offers a similar upright habit with intense blue foliage. ‘Blue Pacific’ juniper (Juniperus conferta ‘Blue Pacific’) forms a dense, low-spreading mat of blue-green needles, excellent for groundcover applications.
Common “Cedar Bush” Types: Arborvitae
Arborvitae (Thuja) are another group of plants often called “cedar bushes.” These conifers feature flattened, scale-like foliage arranged in sprays, giving them a soft, textured appearance. Arborvitae typically exhibit dense, upright growth habits, making them popular for privacy screens and hedges due to their natural conical or pyramidal shapes.
‘Emerald Green’ arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’) is a classic choice, known for its narrow, columnar form and rich green foliage that retains its color through winter. ‘Green Giant’ arborvitae (Thuja standishii ‘Green Giant’), while capable of growing into a large tree, can be maintained as a substantial hedge or screen with regular pruning, offering rapid growth and a dense habit.
For a broader option, ‘Techny’ arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Techny’) forms a dense, broad pyramidal shape with dark green foliage. ‘Little Giant’ arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Little Giant’) is a dwarf, globe-shaped cultivar, perfect for smaller spaces or as an accent plant.
Other Plants Sometimes Called “Cedar Bushes”
Beyond junipers and arborvitae, other conifer genera are occasionally referred to as “cedar bushes.” These plants share superficial similarities in evergreen foliage or growth habits but possess distinct botanical characteristics.
One such genus is Chamaecyparis, known as false cypress. These plants often have delicate, feathery foliage that can be green, blue, or yellow, and come in various sizes and shapes, from dwarf globes to upright columns. Another group is Cupressus, or true cypress, which also features scale-like foliage and can range from large trees to more compact forms.
Choosing the Right “Cedar Bush” for Your Landscape
Choosing the right “cedar bush” for your landscape involves considering several factors. First, assess the desired mature size and natural growth habit (spreading, upright, or mounding) to ensure it fits the space.
Foliage color is also important, as these evergreens provide year-round visual interest with options from deep greens to vibrant blues and golds. Consider the plant’s intended use, such as a specimen, privacy hedge, groundcover, or part of a mixed border. Finally, evaluate environmental needs like sunlight exposure and hardiness zone for long-term success.