Alaska Cedar
Callitropsis nootkatensis
Last reviewed: August 2026
Alaska Cedar (Callitropsis nootkatensis) is a perennial tree native to CA, OR, WA. It reads as an intentional, HOA-friendly planting in the right spot.
Toxicity unknown
Alaska Cedar (Callitropsis nootkatensis) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Alaska Cedar as toxic to livestock.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
600"–1800" H × 240"–600" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
CA, OR, WA
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 437 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
Find rebates in your areaBrowse plants for this ecoregion
Alaska cedar is a majestic evergreen conifer native to coastal forests with drooping branches and scale-like foliage. This slow-growing tree develops an elegant pyramidal shape and can live for centuries, making it a premium landscape specimen. Its distinctive weeping habit and year-round green color provide excellent structure and visual interest.
Growing Alaska Cedar
Grow Alaska Cedar in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 600 to 1800 inches tall and spread 240 to 600 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Alaska Cedar is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, mid zone.
- Extremely large mature size may overwhelm smaller properties
- Very slow growth means decades to achieve desired screening effect
Wildlife value
Provides nesting sites and shelter for birds, particularly in its dense canopy. The seeds feed various songbirds and small mammals.
Common questions
- How much sun does Alaska Cedar need?
- Alaska Cedar grows best in part shade conditions.
- Where is Alaska Cedar native?
- Alaska Cedar (Callitropsis nootkatensis) is native to CA, OR, WA, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
- Is Alaska Cedar toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Alaska Cedar as toxic to livestock.
- Is Alaska Cedar HOA-friendly?
- Alaska Cedar is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Alaska Cedar? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz