How to Grow Eastern Red Cedar 'Degroot's Spire'
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Eastern Red Cedar 'Degroot's Spire'
Juniperus virginiana 'Degroot's Spire'
treeA narrow, columnar cultivar of Eastern Red Cedar with a dense, compact growth habit and soft, feathery blue-green foliage that turns purple-bronze in winter. This evergreen conifer is prized for its architectural form, making it an excellent accent plant or windbreak in landscapes. It grows slowly to moderately and requires minimal maintenance once established.
When should you plant Eastern Red Cedar 'Degroot's Spire' in your zone?
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Example Eastern Red Cedar 'Degroot's Spire' timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Eastern Red Cedar 'Degroot's Spire'
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 Eastern Red Cedar 'Degroot's Spire'
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9, hardy and drought-tolerant throughout this range
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Get my Eastern Red Cedar 'Degroot's Spire' timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment (Year 1-2)
1-2 yearsYoung tree with thin trunk and initial branching; foliage may appear sparse as root system develops
Water weekly during growing season; mulch base with 2-3 inches of organic material; avoid fertilizer; stake if windy location
Early Growth (Year 3-5)
3 yearsTree develops characteristic narrow, columnar form; branching becomes fuller; blue-green foliage becomes more prominent
Reduce watering frequency as roots establish; prune only to maintain central leader; monitor for spider mites in dry conditions
Juvenile Development (Year 6-10)
4-5 yearsStrong columnar shape evident; dense, soft foliage throughout; foliage begins showing purple-bronze winter coloration
Minimal pruning needed; remove any competing leaders; ensure adequate spacing for air circulation; reduce fertilizer inputs
Mature Form (Year 10+)
OngoingReaches typical mature height of 20-25 feet with narrow columnar silhouette; dense foliage from base to top; winter color deepens
Prune only to remove dead or diseased branches; maintain shape with light pruning if needed; virtually drought-tolerant; apply winter anti-desiccant spray in harsh climates
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Monitor for fine webbing and yellowing foliage; spray with water to dislodge; use miticide if severe; increase humidity when possible
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Hand-pick bags in late fall or early spring; apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) when young caterpillars hatch in early summer
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Spray with horticultural oil in dormant season; prune heavily infested branches; repeat treatments may be necessary
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Prune and destroy infected branches; improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply fungicide if widespread
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Remove nearby apple and hawthorn trees if possible; prune affected branches; avoid planting near susceptible hosts; apply fungicide preventatively
Uses
Aromatic Craft Material
HouseholdThe foliage and wood have a distinctive, pleasant cedar aroma that can be used in decorative arrangements, wreaths, and garlands. When dried, it naturally repels moths and can be placed in closets or storage areas. [source]
Wildlife Habitat and Food
WildlifeThe dense foliage provides shelter and nesting sites for birds and small mammals. The tree produces small blue berry-like cones that are eaten by cedar waxwings, juncos, and other bird species. [source]
Flavoring Agent
CulinaryYoung foliage and berry cones can be used to infuse spirits, create tea, or add a cedar-juniper flavor to culinary dishes. Traditional uses include flavoring wild game and smoking meats. [source]
Wood and Ornamental Use
CraftThe attractive wood is used in woodworking and carving. The ornamental columnar form makes it ideal for formal gardens, contemporary landscapes, and as a screening or accent plant. [source]
Traditional Herbal Remedy
MedicinalHistorically used in traditional medicine for respiratory support and immune function, though scientific evidence is limited. Modern use is primarily aromatic and aesthetic rather than medicinal. [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 applicable; this is an ornamental tree. However, foliage may be harvested for crafts, arrangements, or aromatic purposes year-round without damaging the plant's structure.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Despite its common name 'Cedar,' Eastern Red Cedar is actually a juniper (Juniperus virginiana), not a true cedar. The misnomer comes from early colonists who named it for its cedar-like wood and aroma.
- 🌱 The foliage changes color with the seasons—bright blue-green in warm months and purple-bronze to rust-colored in cold winters—a striking transformation that adds winter interest to landscapes.
- 🌱 This species has been used for centuries by Native Americans and early settlers for its aromatic wood, which was made into chests, pencils, and incense. The wood is naturally resistant to rot and decay.
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