SafePlants

Chamaecyparis lawsoniana: The Port Orford Cedar

Chamaecyparis lawsoniana, commonly known as Port Orford cedar or Lawson cypress, is a captivating coniferous tree with a rich history and diverse uses.

Considerations for Pets

• The tree has scale-like foliage, which may be a potential concern if ingested by pets.
• The tree produces wood that is aromatic, which could attract or repel certain animals.

Considerations for Children

• The tree has scale-like foliage, which may be a potential concern if ingested by children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Chamaecyparis lawsoniana (A. Murray) Parl.
• Family: Cupressaceae
• Common Names: Port Orford cedar, Lawson cypress, Port Orford white-cedar, white cedar, Oregon-cedar, ginger-pine, Lawson false-cypress, False Cypress
• Synonyms: The text refers to "white-cedars" and "false-cypresses" suggesting these terms are related, though it doesn't explicitly list them as synonyms.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to a limited area along the Pacific Coast, specifically from Coos Bay, Oregon, to the mouth of the Mad River near Arcata, California, USA.
• It thrives in maritime conditions of northern California into southern Oregon in the Coast.
• Grows naturally where soil water is abundant.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• It is described as a tall evergreen coniferous tree with reddish-brown bark and drooping features.
• The leaves are persistent and scale-like.
• The grain of the wood is described as "straight as an arrow" with a uniform medium to fine texture.

Ecological Role

• The fungus-like microorganisms Phytophthora lateralis and P. cinnamomi can kill Port-Orford-cedar seedlings and trees, causing root disease.

Uses

• The wood has been used for arrow shafts.
• It is valued in east Asia, particularly in Japan, for making coffins and for shrines and temples.
• It is used in ornamental plantings.
• The wood is used for lumber products such as tongue and groove, siding, timbers, posts, beams, decking, and boards.
• It is used to make guitar soundboards and other tonewoods.
• It is used for exterior products including decking, railings, trim, fencing, siding, and boards.
• The essential oil is used in aromatherapy.

Quirky Facts

• The wood is considered the "preferred choice" by many traditional archers and has been for decades, unmatched by any other wood shaft.
• In Japan, it's in high demand for making coffins, as well as for shrines and temples.

Further Information

• Forest Insect & Disease. Leaflet 131. Revised August 2011. U.S. Department of Agriculture &#8226 Forest Service. Port-Orford-Cedar Root Disease.