How to Grow Dwarf Weeping Eastern Red Cedar
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Dwarf Weeping Eastern Red Cedar
Juniperus virginiana 'Canaertii Compacta' or similar cultivar
treeA compact, weeping conifer that forms a graceful fountain-like silhouette, typically growing 15-25 feet tall with a spread of 8-12 feet. Despite its common name, it's a juniper (not a true cedar) native to eastern North America, featuring soft, feathery foliage that transitions from blue-green to bronze in winter. This ornamental conifer is valued for its architectural form, year-round interest, and minimal maintenance requirements.
When should you plant Dwarf Weeping Eastern Red Cedar in your zone?
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Example Dwarf Weeping Eastern Red Cedar timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Dwarf Weeping Eastern Red Cedar
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Dwarf Weeping Eastern Red Cedar
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Dwarf Weeping Eastern Red Cedar dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9, extremely cold-hardy and drought-tolerant once established
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Get my Dwarf Weeping Eastern Red Cedar timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
2-6 months after plantingYoung tree with developing root system; weeping form begins to show but is still somewhat upright
Water regularly (2-3 times weekly) for first 2-3 months. Mulch around base with 2-3 inches of wood chips to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Avoid fertilizing.
Juvenile Growth
1-3 yearsTree establishes its characteristic weeping form; pendulous branches become more pronounced; foliage is typically blue-green
Water during dry periods (1-2 times monthly). Prune only to remove dead or crossing branches; avoid heavy pruning that disrupts form. Monitor for spider mites in dry conditions.
Maturation
3-15+ yearsTree reaches desired size and full weeping silhouette; foliage may show bronze or reddish tones in winter; develops full architectural appeal
Minimal watering needed except during drought. No fertilizer required. Prune selectively if needed for structural integrity or to remove damaged branches. Once established, essentially maintenance-free.
Winter Interest
November-MarchFoliage color deepens to bronze, purple, or reddish tones; small berry-like blue cones appear on female trees; form remains striking even when dormant
No active care needed. Foliage color is temporary; green returns in spring. Cones provide winter interest and food for wildlife.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity via overhead watering, horticultural oil spray in spring/fall, miticide if severe
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Hand-pick bags in winter/early spring, insecticidal soap or spinosad in early summer when caterpillars emerge
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Horticultural oil spray in dormant season or early growth, systemic insecticide if infestation is severe
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Remove infected branches, prune to improve air circulation, insecticidal soap if widespread
Uses
Culinary Flavoring Agent
CulinaryThe foliage and berry-like cones contain aromatic volatile oils historically used to flavor gin and other spirits, as well as traditional herbal infusions. Modern use is primarily in specialty liqueurs and herbal teas, though not commonly consumed in large quantities. [source]
Ornamental Landscaping Focal Point
HouseholdThe graceful weeping form and year-round foliage make this tree an exceptional architectural specimen for gardens, particularly in modern, naturalistic, or Asian-inspired landscapes. Its compact size fits urban and suburban settings where larger trees are impractical. [source]
Traditional Herbal Remedy
MedicinalJuniper has been used in traditional medicine for its diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, though modern scientific evidence is limited. Any medicinal use should be undertaken only under professional guidance due to potential interactions and contraindications. [source]
Wildlife Habitat and Food Source
WildlifeThe blue, berry-like cones attract birds and wildlife; the dense foliage provides shelter and nesting sites for songbirds. It is particularly valuable for wildlife gardens and native plant landscapes. [source]
Wood for Fine Woodworking and Incense
CraftEastern red cedar wood is aromatic, rot-resistant, and used in fine woodworking, traditional cabinetry, and aromatic incense. The foliage and heartwood have been burned as incense and smudging material in traditional practices. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Not harvested for fruit or foliage; prune only for ornamental/structural purposes. Remove dead or diseased branches anytime. For best form, avoid heading back main scaffold branches; instead, selectively remove interfering limbs and thin interior congestion in late winter.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Despite the common name, eastern red cedar is actually a juniper (Juniperus virginiana), not a true cedar. The misnaming occurred historically because early colonists called the wood 'cedar' due to its aromatic properties, though true cedars belong to the genus Cedrus.
- 🌱 The blue, waxy, berry-like structures are not true fruits but modified cones called galbuli; they persist on the tree for months and are a critical winter food source for cedar waxwings and other birds.
- 🌱 Eastern red cedar foliage contains compounds that cause a fungal rust disease (cedar-apple rust) on apple and hawthorn trees; the disease alternates between juniper and pomaceous hosts, making these species incompatible neighbors in landscape design.
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