PNW Native
Incense-cedar has woody cones and scale-like needles similarly to western red-cedar. It grows up to 230 ft. tall, but is frequently around 140 ft. Scales are opposite, yellow-green, flattened, and four scales tightly encase twigs. Bark is red-brown, weathering to grey. Cones are around 1 in. long and contain 3 scales. (1)
Incense-cedar ranges from Central Oregon to Baja California. (2)
Incense-cedar prefers dry, sunny environments. (1)
Mule deer browse incense cedar, many animals use the tree for cover, and small mammals eat the seeds. (2)
The bark and twigs of incense cedar were respectively used to make baskets and brooms. A steamed infusion of incense cedar bark was inhaled to treat colds, and a decoction of the boughs was used for stomach issues. (1)
Incense cedar resists decay and insects due to its aromatic wood. Its soft and supple wood is one of the few species of tree used to make pencils; notably the Ticonderoga brand uses them. (1) The wood is also used in window sashes, mudsills, fencing, greenhouse benches, poles, and sheathing under stucco or brick veneer construction. (2)
Mathews, D. (2021). Cascadia revealed: A guide to the plants, Animals & Geology of the Pacific Northwest Mountains. Timber Press, Inc.
Moore, L. (2002). INCENSE CEDAR Calocedrus decurrens (Torr.). USDA NCRS Plant Guide. https://plants.usda.gov/plantguide/pdf/pg_cade27.pdf
