Northern White Cedar Bonsai
Best mature specimen for outdoor bonsai enthusiasts in cooler climates.
Discover the unique charm of this Northern White Cedar bonsai, a mature specimen estimated to be around 25 years old, though officially listed at 8 years. This cold-hardy tree, dug from Vermont, stands 28 inches tall with a substantial 5-inch trunk base, ready to thrive outdoors across most of the U.S. It requires a winter dormancy period and prefers light shade with morning sun, adapting to cooler full sun. Arriving potted in an 11-inch tie pot, the exact, one-of-a-kind tree pictured is the one you will receive, showcasing its natural character and age.
$145.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
312
/ 1209
#312 in Trees
Price vs Category Average
+35%
Above average
Botanical Name
Thuja occidentalis
/ Thuja occidentalis
Who it's for
- Outdoor bonsai enthusiasts living in colder temperate climates
- Gardeners seeking a sensory experience from their plant displays
- Artists interested in creating dramatic, aged deadwood features
Who should skip it
- Novice pruners intimidated by strict maintenance requirements
- Impatient growers looking for rapid trunk and branch development
- Busy hobbyists unable to maintain a consistent watering schedule
Performance breakdown
Specimen Maturity
Substantial five-inch trunk base offers impressive visual age and character.
Climate Resilience
Hardy native species thrives effortlessly in harsh northern outdoor conditions.
Visual Authenticity
Guaranteed delivery of the exact unique specimen photographed online.
Maintenance Demand
High water needs and dormancy requirements demand consistent, attentive care.
Growth Manageability
Slow growth rate keeps the silhouette stable and easy to maintain.
Display Versatility
Adaptable light requirements allow for flexible placement in varied outdoor settings.
Key Specs
Botanical Name
Thuja occidentalis
Height Overall
28 inches
Tree Height
24 inches
Pot Type
Tie Pot
Pot Diameter
11 inches
Trunk Diameter at Base
5 inches
Trunk Diameter at 2 inches above base
2 inches
Estimated Age
8 years
Features
- One-of-a-kind, exact tree pictured is shipped.
- Cold climate tree for outdoor cultivation.
- Adaptable to partial shade and cooler full sun.
- Mature, substantial trunk for character.
- Requires essential winter dormancy period.
- Evergreen foliage provides year-round appeal.
- Slow growth rate for manageable size.
- Suitable for USDA Zone 3.
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the striking design and overall quality of the Northern White Cedar Bonsai. Reviewers frequently note the tree arrives healthy and well packaged, often exceeding expectations for visual appeal. The unique structure of the cedar is a major draw, providing an elegant, mature look right out of the box. While some mention the price point is high, the perceived longevity and artistic merit generally justify the investment for serious enthusiasts. The primary takeaway is the exceptional aesthetic quality and robust health of the specimen.
Know before you buy
Yes. Every Northern White Cedar bonsai we offer is a unique, one-of-a-kind specimen, and the tree pictured is the exact one that will be shipped to you.
No, this is a cold-hardy outdoor tree. It requires a natural winter dormancy period to survive and thrive, meaning it must be kept outdoors year-round.
This cedar performs best in light shade with morning sun, though it is adaptable to cooler full sun conditions. Avoid placing it in intense, scorching afternoon heat.
This species has high water requirements. Ensure the tree is planted in well-drained soil and monitor moisture levels closely, especially during the growing season, to prevent the soil from drying out completely.
Yes, this tree is rated for USDA Zone 3, making it exceptionally cold-hardy. It is well-suited for northern climates where it can experience the necessary winter dormancy.
The 5-inch trunk base indicates a mature, well-established specimen that provides the rugged character and aesthetic weight typical of older bonsai. While listed at 8 years, its development suggests a seasoned tree with significant natural history.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
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$145