Yellow cedar

Yellow Cedar (also known as Alaska Cedar or Cypress) is a species of tree in the cypress family, native to the west coast of North America. Its scientific name is Cupressus nootkatensis.

Description

Yellow Cedar is a slow-growing tree, typically reaching heights of 15-40 meters, with some specimens known to reach 55 meters. The bark is gray and stringy, and the leaves are scale-like, arranged in opposite decussate pairs. The cones are 10-14 mm long, green at first, maturing into brown about 8 months after pollination.

Distribution and Habitat

Yellow Cedar is found from the northern end of the Alaska Panhandle in Alaska, south through western British Columbia, and into the northern part of Washington State. It grows in high rainfall areas, from sea level to 1,200 meters altitude.

Uses

The wood of the Yellow Cedar is hard and fine-grained, and highly resistant to decay. It is highly prized for boat building, carving, and other uses where durability is important. The tree's roots are also used by the Native American tribes of the Pacific Northwest to make baskets and hats.

Conservation Status

Yellow Cedar is currently not considered a threatened species. However, a decline in its population has been noted in some areas, primarily due to a combination of factors including climate change, logging, and changes in land use.

Cultural Significance

In addition to its practical uses, Yellow Cedar has significant cultural importance for many Native American tribes of the Pacific Northwest. It is often used in traditional ceremonies, and many legends and stories are associated with it.

See Also

• Cupressus
• Trees of the Pacific Northwest
• Native American use of cedar

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