Family: Cupressaceae

found in open conditions with acidic soils, or pure stands in swamp forests.

this specimen found in a peat (sphagnum) bog in Ponkapoag Bog, Massachusetts
Characteristics:

Deciduous tree

distinctive reddish, fibrous, “catscratch” bark

oil glands on leaves

Height 15-27m (50-90 feet)
Leaves:

opposite, evergreen, dull blue-green, scale-like sprays

1-3 mm (1/16-1/8 in) long

contain glands that secrete oil which prevents rot and discourages moths.

particularly aromatic crushed leaves
Bark:

reddish-brown, thin, and fibrous, with “catscratch” appearance.

Springy live branches used in fire starting to make a bow drill, a tool used in ignition of a pile of tinder.

Flaky bark useful for making cordage and tinder in fire-starting

Bark rich in Vitamin C; historically eaten as scurvy preventative

• 
  Chaemaecyparis thyoides is not a member of the same family as Cedrus “true cedars”, like Cedar-of-Lebanon and other Mediterranean Cedars.
  
• 
  Also known as the Arbor Vitae (“tree of life”).
  

Sources:
- Peterson’s Field Guide