This tree is native to the Pacific coast of North America, from northern California up to Alaska. It likes ample water and well drained soil with slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0- 7.0). It is frost hardy and tolerates wind and humidity well, but does not do well in prolonged hot, dry conditions.

Thuja plicata is a tall, narrow conifer with very dense, dark green foliage and attractive drooping growth as it matures. Fairly fast growing and slowly attaining heights of 20m or more in the right conditions. A great tree for windbreaks or hedging, Both the foliage and timber have a pleasant scent. The thick bark develops an attractive fissured dark red to dark brown colour as the tree matures.