Cedar trees are among the most admired evergreens for their fragrance, strength, and year-round beauty. Their growth rates vary widely depending on the species, soil quality, and climate. Understanding how fast cedar trees grow helps homeowners, landscapers, and reforestation projects plan effectively for screening, shade, or timber use.
On average, most cedars grow between 1 and 2 feet per year once established, though some species can add up to 3 feet annually under ideal conditions. Growth speed depends on the cedar’s type, local environment, and how well the tree adapts to available moisture and sunlight.
Factors That Influence Cedar Tree Growth
Several factors determine how quickly a cedar tree matures.
Soil Quality
Cedar trees prefer well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Poor drainage slows root development, which limits vertical growth.
Climate
Warm summers and moderate rainfall support faster growth. In colder regions, growth slows during extended periods of winter or drought.
Sunlight
Full sunlight encourages dense foliage and strong trunks. Cedars planted in shade often grow thinner and less uniform in growth.
Watering and Maintenance
Consistent moisture without standing water is key. Mulching helps retain soil moisture and maintain temperature balance.
Spacing and Competition
Cedars planted too closely together compete for nutrients, resulting in slower growth. Proper spacing allows air flow and sunlight to reach all sides of the tree.
Average Growth Rate of Cedar Trees
Across all species, cedar trees generally show the following growth ranges:
- Slow-growing species: Less than 1 foot per year
- Moderate growers: 1 to 2 feet per year
- Fast growers: Up to 3 feet per year under ideal conditions
Most cultivated landscape cedars reach maturity between 30 and 50 years, depending on care and climate.
Eastern Red Cedar Growth Rate
The Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana) is native to North America and grows well in poor, dry soils. It is technically a juniper but widely recognised as a cedar due to its aromatic wood.
- Growth rate: 1 to 2 feet per year
- Mature height: 40 to 50 feet
- Lifespan: Up to 300 years
This species establishes quickly and provides dense, evergreen cover, making it a popular choice for windbreaks or privacy hedges. In open fields, it can grow faster because of full sunlight exposure.
Western Red Cedar Growth Rate
Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata) is native to the Pacific Northwest. It is known for its tall, straight trunk and moisture tolerance.
- Growth rate: 2 to 3 feet per year
- Mature height: 150 to 200 feet in natural forests
- Lifespan: 400 to 1,000 years
This cedar grows rapidly in cool, wet climates and provides valuable timber for fencing, shingles, and decking. In drier conditions, its rate drops slightly but remains steady with deep watering.
Northern White Cedar Growth Rate
Northern White Cedar (Thuja occidentalis), also known as Arborvitae, grows best in cool, moist climates.
- Growth rate: 1 foot per year
- Mature height: 30 to 50 feet
- Lifespan: 400 to 700 years
Its growth is steady rather than fast. Homeowners often use it for hedges and natural barriers because it tolerates trimming and pruning well.
Deodar Cedar Growth Rate
The Deodar Cedar (Cedrus deodara), native to the Himalayas, adapts well to warm, dry regions such as California.
- Growth rate: 2 to 3 feet per year
- Mature height: 40 to 70 feet in landscapes, over 150 feet in native habitats
- Lifespan: 300 to 500 years
It grows quickly in full sun with moderate watering. Its graceful drooping branches make it a favoured ornamental tree in parks and large properties.
White Cedar Growth Rate
White Cedar is a term often used interchangeably with Northern White Cedar, though it also refers to Melia azedarach in some regions.
- Growth rate: 1 to 2 feet per year
- Mature height: 40 to 50 feet
- Lifespan: 200 to 400 years
This species prefers cooler, moist soil and can tolerate partial shade, though growth slows without direct sunlight.
Blue Atlas Cedar Growth Rate
The Blue Atlas Cedar (Cedrus atlantica ‘Glauca’) grows moderately but adds striking color to landscapes.
- Growth rate: 1 foot per year
- Mature height: 40 to 60 feet
- Lifespan: 200 to 300 years
Although not the fastest grower, its silvery-blue needles and dense form make it one of the most decorative cedar species.
Weeping Blue Atlas Cedar Growth Rate
The Weeping Blue Atlas Cedar is a variation of the Blue Atlas Cedar characterised by its distinctive, cascading branch pattern.
- Growth rate: 1 foot per year
- Mature height: 10 to 20 feet when trained
- Lifespan: 150 to 200 years
Growth is slower due to its ornamental shaping and limited height, but it adds a unique texture to gardens and courtyards.
How Big Do Cedar Trees Grow
Cedar trees vary dramatically in size by species and environment.
- Dwarf or ornamental types such as the Weeping Blue Atlas Cedar reach 10 to 20 feet.
- Landscape trees like the Eastern Red Cedar and Deodar Cedar often grow to heights of 40 to 70 feet.
- Forest giants, such as Western Red Cedars, can reach heights of over 150 feet under natural conditions.
Their size reflects both genetic potential and environmental adaptation. Regular pruning and trimming may influence shape but do not significantly alter height potential.
How Long Does It Take for Cedar Trees to Grow
Cedar trees usually reach noticeable maturity within 10 to 15 years. For full canopy development and seed production, it may take 20 to 40 years depending on species.
- Eastern Red and Deodar Cedars mature faster, typically within 20 years.
- Northern White and Blue Atlas Cedars develop more slowly, reaching full size after 30 years or more.
Cedars grown for lumber or screening are often considered harvest-ready in 25 to 35 years.
Cedar Tree Lifespan
Cedar trees are among the longest-living conifers in the world. Under favourable conditions, many species exceed several centuries.
Approximate lifespans by species:
- Eastern Red Cedar: 300 years
- Northern White Cedar: 400 to 700 years
- Western Red Cedar: up to 1,000 years
- Deodar Cedar: 300 to 500 years
- Blue Atlas Cedar: 200 to 300 years
Their longevity depends on soil drainage, climate stability, and the absence of major pest infestations.
Brodie Juniper Growth Rate
The Brodie Juniper, though not a true cedar, is often compared due to its similar growth habits.
- Growth rate: 1 to 2 feet per year
- Mature height: 15 to 25 feet
- Lifespan: 70 to 100 years
It grows upright with compact foliage, serving as a fast-growing evergreen screen. Its growth rate closely matches that of moderate cedar varieties.
Tips for Faster Cedar Tree Growth
Proper care during the early stages ensures healthy long-term development.
- Plant in well-drained soil with adequate space.
- Water deeply once or twice a week during dry months.
- Apply organic mulch to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
- Avoid over-fertilisation; excess nitrogen can weaken roots.
- Protect young trees from deer and rodents that chew bark.
- Limit pruning to removing dead or crowded branches, as over-trimming may slow growth.
FAQ: Cedar Tree Growth
How fast does a cedar tree grow per year?
Most cedar trees grow 1 to 2 feet per year on average, though some reach 3 feet under ideal conditions.
Which cedar tree grows the fastest?
The Deodar Cedar and Western Red Cedar show the fastest growth rates, often exceeding 2 feet annually.
How long does it take a cedar tree to mature?
Cedar trees typically take 20 to 40 years to reach maturity, depending on the species and environmental conditions.
Do cedar trees need full sun to grow quickly?
Yes, full sunlight promotes strong and balanced growth. Shade reduces height and foliage density.
Can cedar trees grow in poor soil?
Particular species, such as Eastern Red Cedar, tolerate poor soil well, though well-drained soil always produces faster growth.
What is the lifespan of a cedar tree?
Depending on species, cedar trees can live from 200 to over 1,000 years in stable conditions.
Do cedar trees grow fast enough for privacy screens?
Yes, varieties like Eastern Red and Deodar Cedars are ideal for creating privacy barriers due to their dense, upright growth.
Final Thought
Cedar trees grow at varying rates, depending on the species and environment, but all share the same enduring strength and resilience. From the slow-growing but steady Northern White Cedar to the rapidly growing Deodar and Western Red Cedars, each species adapts uniquely to its environment. With the proper care and placement, cedars develop into long-lasting, majestic trees that add structure, shelter, and natural beauty to any landscape.