This large coniferous tree has an upright trunk with reddish-brown bark that sheds in large plates and the drooping branches form a compact conical habit.  It has dark bluish-green scale-like leaves and the male and female cones appear in spring.    

Hardiness zones 4 to 7 

Chamaecyparis nootkatensis is naturally found along the coast in western North America from Alaska to Oregon growing in forests in well drained moist organic rich soils that are neutral tending acidic. It prefers a wind protected sunny position and is frost tolerant but drought tender.

Alaska-cedar is grown for its foliage and its stately habit. It is planted in large gardens and parks as a specimen tree or used in woodland settings on the coast and in the adjoining mountains. It establishes in 3 to 5 years and is long lived. It has fragrant close grained yellow timber that is used in boat building or cabinet work. ID 2725

Note:
Under cultivation the tree normally grows smaller and will tolerate poorer soils and exposed conditions. 

Other common names include Nootka Cypress and Stinking Cypress.
 
Chamaecyparis (kă-mie-KY-pa-ris) nootkatensis (noot-ka-ten’sis)

Cupressaceae (kew-press-AY-see-ee)
Coniferous Trees