Christmas tree shape when young. Broad, spreading, flat topped without branches on lower trunk when older. Height to 50-80 feet, with 35 ft. spread. Alternate foliage, arranged singly on long growth, and spirally on short shoots. Softer, lighter texture than other cedars.
Needles are soft and grayish green.
Cones 3-4 inches long and 3 inches wide. 1 or 2 on short shoots. Can be pruned to shrub-like growth if desired. If planted in small lawn, can soon overpower area. Control spread by cutting new growth of side branches halfway back in late spring.