The Western Red Cedar is a tree that is grown in the western US. It is one of the 4 most important Pacific Northwest species. The cedar grows to an old age, which in return usually develops into a giant tree. It is a very useful and valuable tree. It is also commonly called giant cedar, canoe cedar, Pacific redcedar, shinglewood, and Giant Arborvitae. Western redcedar, a.k.a Thuja plicata, grows as far north as Southern Alaska through the state of Washington on into California. It is also prevalent in Oregon, Montana, and British Columbia. It grows in areas of low elevation with moist, rich soils, and in middle elevations where the temperature is cooler. The most abundant growth occurs in areas with higher soil moisture, but it will grow in a drier site. The elevation that western redcedar most likely occurs between sea level to 6600 feet. The western redcedar is an important tree. It is used for a number of items. It is used to make lumber for building, decorative purposes, and wall paneling. It can also be used in the making of pencils, window parts, and other products. The major use of this species is for poles, shingles, and shakes. It is important that the site where the seeds are going to be planted be moist. The western redcedar is shade tolerant, and competing species will not hurt their growth as long as soil moisture remains high. The best time to direct seed is during autumn, when the soil moisture is adequate. The Western Red Cedar a large evergreen conifer that grows to 200 feet tall and 10 feet in diameter (sometimes more).