24 Different Types Of Arborvitae Trees For Your Yard (With Pictures)

Arborvitae trees are a popular choice for landscaping due to their versatility and ability to thrive in various environments. With over 24 types of arborvitae trees, shrubs, and hedges to choose from, it’s essential to understand the unique characteristics of each variety. This article will explore the different types of arborvitae trees, including cultivars like ‘Danica’ Globe Arborvitae, ‘Little Giant’ Arborvitae, and many others.

We’ll also cover the key aspects of care and maintenance to ensure your arborvitae tree flourishes. Whether you’re looking for a compact hedge or a majestic statement piece, there’s an arborvitae variety suitable for any landscape. The information provided will help you make an informed decision when selecting the perfect arborvitae tree for your yard. Related types of trees include pine, cedar, palm, and birch trees, as well as maple trees.

Table of Contents

How many types of arborvitae trees?

The classification of Arborvitae species can be nuanced depending on how one defines ‘type’. On a most basic level, there are only three primary species: Japanese Thuja (T. plicata), Western Red Cedar (T. plicata var. occidentalis), and Common Arborvitae or Northern White-Cedar (T. occidentalis). However, if we expand our definition to encompass subspecies and varieties, the diversity of Arborvitae types increases significantly, with approximately 30 distinct forms emerging.

Arborvitae tree identification

Arborvitae tree identification may seem daunting due to the numerous varieties, but with a bit of knowledge and meticulous observation, you can confidently identify an arborvitae tree. To get started, consider the following key characteristics:

Firstly, note the evergreen needle-like leaves that are characteristic of all arborvitae trees.
Next, observe the shape of the tree itself; arborvitae trees can be either cone-shaped or columnar in appearance.

Additionally, take stock of the tree’s size, which can range from diminutive (under two feet tall) to impressive (over 100 feet tall).
Finally, pay attention to the color of the leaves, which may be green, yellow, or even display a blue-tinged hue.
By keeping these distinguishing features in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to accurately identify arborvitae trees and develop your skills as an arboreal detective.

Arborvitae Leaves.

While often referred to as ‘arborvitae leaves’, they’re actually the foliage of the Thuja occidentalis, or northern white cedar tree, aptly nicknamed ‘tree of life’ due to their historical use in traditional medicine. The rich chemical composition of these leaves has been harnessed for centuries to treat various ailments.

Research has identified specific compounds with medicinal properties, including one notable discovery – a compound capable of selectively targeting and eliminating cancer cells.

Arborvitae Height.

Arborvitae trees have earned their place as a favorite among North American landscapers for their lush, evergreen canopies and remarkable adaptability. They thrive in a wide range of conditions, including heavy pruning, making them an excellent choice for homeowners and gardeners alike.

Despite the existence of numerous arborvitae species, they all share a consistent growth pattern.

These trees tend to grow at a slow pace, adding mere inches to their height each year, yet can eventually reach impressive heights of 40 feet or more over the course of their lifetime.

When selecting an arborvitae for your landscape, one crucial consideration is its mature height. If you’re seeking a towering tree, opt for faster-growing varieties like Thuja occidentalis ‘Sky Pilot’ or T. plicata ‘Atrovirens.’ For a more compact tree, slower-growing species such as T. standishii or T.

occidentalis ‘Nana’ are ideal choices.

Types Of Arborvitae Trees, Shrubs, and Hedges

‘Danica’ Globe Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Danica’)

‘Danica’ Globe Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Danica’)

The Danica Globe Arborvitae is an attractive, low-maintenance option for small spaces. Its unique feature is its dense, globe-shaped form, which provides year-round interest with its bright green foliage. This adaptable plant thrives in a variety of conditions and is well-suited for gardens where water conservation is important due to its natural drought tolerance.

Additionally, its deer-resistant nature makes it an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a plant that can withstand local wildlife. With its compact growth habit and minimal care requirements, the Danica Globe Arborvitae is an ideal selection for gardeners looking for an easy-to-care-for evergreen solution.

‘Little Giant’ Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Little Giant’)

‘Little Giant’ Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Little Giant’)

The ‘Little Giant’ Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Little Giant’) is a diminutive evergreen that thrives in small gardens and confined spaces. Its compact, pyramidal shape and dense, vibrant green foliage make it an attractive addition to any landscape.
This resilient tree boasts impressive resistance to deer and rabbit damage, as well as the ability to tolerate salt spray, making it an excellent choice for coastal areas.

‘Little Giant’ Arborvitae grows at a moderate pace, eventually reaching heights of around 15 feet tall and wide. It prefers full sun to partial shade and is hardy in zones four through eight.
This low-maintenance tree is perfect for individuals seeking a straightforward, easy-to-care-for plant. Its versatility makes it an ideal choice for foundation plantings, hedges, and screens.

Additionally, it can be successfully planted in containers, making it a great option for those with limited outdoor space. Consider adding this reliable tree to your landscape today!

‘North Pole’ Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘North Pole’)

‘North Pole’ Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘North Pole’)

Experience the charm of the ‘North Pole’ Arborvitae, a compact and slow-growing evergreen ideal for small spaces. Its dense, rich green foliage offers year-round interest and privacy, making it an excellent choice for creating cozy outdoor retreats or screening areas from neighbors. This hardy plant boasts remarkable resilience to deer, drought, and disease, ensuring it remains healthy and thriving despite challenging conditions.

‘North Pole’ Arborvitae is equally at home in full sun or partial shade, with a preference for well-drained soil. With minimal care, this low-maintenance plant will flourish, providing a picturesque backdrop for your outdoor living space.

‘Woodward’ Globe Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Woodwardii’)

‘Woodward’ Globe Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Woodwardii’)

Experience the convenience of shopping at Lowes while discovering the perfect addition to your small garden or tight space – the ‘Woodward’ Globe Arborvitae. This compact, globular evergreen is ideal for foundation plantings, hedges, and specimen plantings due to its modest height of approximately two feet and width of about four feet. Its slow growth rate makes it a thoughtful choice for busy homeowners who value low-maintenance landscaping.

The ‘Woodward’ Globe Arborvitae boasts dense, glossy, dark green foliage that remains attractive year-round, offering excellent visual interest in the landscape. What’s more, this hardy plant is surprisingly drought-tolerant once established, making it an excellent option for gardeners seeking a reliable and easy-to-care-for addition to their outdoor space.

American Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis)

American Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis)

American Arborvitae, a species of evergreen coniferous tree native to eastern North America, has been introduced in western parts. Its pyramidal growth habit makes it a popular ornamental choice for landscaping purposes. The tree grows up to 15-30 meters (50-100 feet) tall and spreads 12-20 meters (40-70 feet) wide. Its leaves are scale-like and arranged in opposite pairs, with a greenish-yellow hue. Cones are spherical and brown, measuring around 0.75 inches (19 mm) in diameter.

The American Arborvitae is often used for hedges, privacy screens, and as a Christmas tree in some regions. However, it’s not suitable for areas prone to salt or drought, requiring full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soils. Additionally, the tree is susceptible to various diseases and pests like aphids, scale insects, spider mites, bagworms, and root rot.

American Arborvitae ‘Yellow Ribbon’ (Thuja occidentalis ‘Yellow Ribbon’)

American Arborvitae ‘Yellow Ribbon’ (Thuja occidentalis ‘Yellow Ribbon’)

American Arborvitae ‘Yellow Ribbon’ is a compact, slow-growing evergreen that thrives in small gardens or as a hedge. Its bright yellow foliage takes on a chartreuse hue during the summer months. This versatile shrub boasts natural deer resistance and drought tolerance once established. As for its ideal growing conditions, American Arborvitae ‘Yellow Ribbon’ excels in full sun to partial shade.

While it prefers moist, well-drained soil, it’s surprisingly adaptable and can tolerate a wide range of soils. With low maintenance needs, this plant is perfect for busy gardeners or those new to horticulture.

Arborvitae ‘Filips Magic Moment’ (Thuja occidentalis ‘Filips Magic Moment’)

Arborvitae ‘Filips Magic Moment’ (Thuja occidentalis ‘Filips Magic Moment’)

Arborvitae ‘Filips Magic Moment’ (Thuja occidentalis ‘Filips Magic Moment’) brings a touch of elegance to the winter landscape with its striking evergreen foliage. This adaptable species thrives in small gardens or yards, serving as an excellent specimen plant or part of a mass planting.

Its slow-growing nature allows it to reach a manageable 15 feet in height at maturity, boasting a dense, pyramid-shaped crown adorned with soft, green needles that take on a warm bronze hue during the colder months.

One of this tree’s notable advantages is its resilience in harsh conditions – it tolerates drought and salt exposure with ease, making it an attractive choice for coastal regions.

For optimal growth, plant Arborvitae ‘Filips Magic Moment’ in full sun to partial shade, taking care to ensure the soil drains well. This low-maintenance species requires minimal pruning, allowing you to focus on its natural beauty.

Baby Giant Arborvitae (Thuja plicata x standishii PPAF 61830744 ‘Virginian™’)

Baby Giant Arborvitae (Thuja plicata x standishii PPAF 61830744 ‘Virginian™’)

Discover the versatility of the Baby Giant Arborvitae, introduced by Proven Winners in 2012. This compact, evergreen tree reaches maturity at an impressive 15-20 feet tall and 12-15 feet wide, making it perfect for small yards or foundation plantings. Its unique characteristic is its dark green foliage that remains vibrant year-round, unlike many other evergreens which often turn bronze in the winter.

With a growth rate of two to three feet per year, this fast-growing tree can quickly add depth and structure to your landscape. Furthermore, it boasts impressive deer resistance and drought tolerance once established. For optimal growth, plant the Baby Giant Arborvitae in full sun to partial shade in well-drained soil. Its hardiness extends from zones four through eight, making it a great option for those seeking a low-maintenance yet visually striking evergreen tree.

Berckman’s Gold Arborvitae (Thuja orientalis ‘Berckman’s Gold’)

Berckman’s Gold Arborvitae (Thuja orientalis ‘Berckman’s Gold’)

FastGrowingTrees offers an unparalleled shopping experience, where beauty meets functionality. Berckman’s Gold Arborvitae stands out as a stunning evergreen, perfect for creating a natural barrier or adding a touch of elegance to your outdoor space. Its golden hue is a unique feature that sets it apart from other plants, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a distinctive look.

This adaptable plant thrives in a range of conditions, tolerating full sun to partial shade and a variety of soils. With a slow growth rate, Berckman’s Gold Arborvitae will eventually reach 15 feet tall, providing a sense of permanence and structure to your landscape. As an added bonus, it is deer resistant and low maintenance, making it an ideal choice for homeowners seeking a hassle-free gardening experience.

Degroot’s Spire Thuja Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Degroot’s Spire’)

Degroot’s Spire Thuja Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Degroot’s Spire’)

With its impressive height of 15-20 feet, Degroot’s Spire Thuja Arborvitae is an ideal choice for creating a stunning privacy screen or windbreak in your outdoor space. Its unique feature is its columnar evergreen foliage, which provides dense and dark green cover that feels soft to the touch when touched. This versatile plant thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions and excels in well-drained soil.

Moreover, it offers an added benefit of being deer-resistant and low maintenance, making it a perfect option for homeowners seeking a hassle-free addition to their landscape.

Emerald Green Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’)

Emerald Green Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’)

Discover the beauty of Emerald Green Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’), a low-fuss evergreen shrub renowned for its deep green foliage. With its adaptability and hardiness, this versatile plant can thrive as a hedge, screen, or foundation planting. As an added bonus, it’s incredibly easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a stress-free, evergreen companion.

Fire Chief™ Thuja Shrub (Thuja occidentalis ‘Congabe’)

Fire Chief™ Thuja Shrub (Thuja occidentalis ‘Congabe’)

This Thuja shrub stands out as an excellent choice for adding structure and beauty to your outdoor space. Its dense, upright habit makes it ideal for hedges, screens, and foundation plantings. In the winter months, its dark green foliage takes on a lovely bronze hue, while in the summer, it remains vibrant and lush. One of the standout features of this variety is its remarkable resistance to deer browse, thanks to the ‘Congabe’ selection.

Fire Chief™ Thuja Shrub is also incredibly low-maintenance, requiring little pruning to maintain its natural shape. Once established, it can thrive in a range of conditions, including those with full sun and dry spells. This hardy shrub is perfect for busy gardeners or beginners, as it can withstand neglect and still deliver years of beauty with minimal upkeep.

Forever Goldy Arborvitae (Thuja plicata ‘4EVER’)

Forever Goldy Arborvitae (Thuja plicata ‘4EVER’)

Embrace the allure of the Forever Goldy Arborvitae, a majestic evergreen tree that effortlessly commands attention with its vibrant golden-yellow hue. Boasting a slow-growing, dense profile, this versatile specimen excels as a privacy hedge or screen, providing a lush backdrop for any landscape. As an added bonus, it thrives in winter’s snowy canvas, radiating warmth and beauty against the frosty backdrop.

Moreover, its hardiness is matched only by its low-maintenance requirements, making it a deer-resistant gem that will elevate your outdoor space without breaking a sweat.

Full Speed A Hedge® American Pillar Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘American Pillar’)

Full Speed A Hedge® American Pillar Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘American Pillar’)

A standout among coniferous trees, the Full Speed A Hedge American Pillar Arborvitae offers a unique combination of year-round interest, screening capabilities, and rapid growth. Capable of reaching 15-20 feet in height and just four feet wide within a decade, this versatile evergreen can thrive in even the most challenging environments. Notably tolerant of wind, salt, and drought once established, American Pillar Arborvitae prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil conditions.

To maximize its potential, fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring, and prune as needed to maintain the desired shape. With deer resistance on its side, this impressive tree makes an excellent choice for privacy hedges, specimen plantings, and foundation plantings alike.

Hetz Midget Thuja (Thuja occidentalis ‘Hetz Midget’)

Hetz Midget Thuja (Thuja occidentalis ‘Hetz Midget’)

For those looking to add some charm to their small gardens or create low-maintenance hedges, Hetz Midget Thuja is an excellent choice. This compact evergreen plant grows to a modest height of just two feet, making it incredibly easy to care for and maintain. Not only does its diminutive size simplify upkeep, but it also allows for effortless pruning and shaping. Additionally, Hetz Midget Thuja boasts impressive cold hardiness, able to withstand chilly temperatures without flinching.

Furthermore, once established, this plant requires minimal watering, making it an ideal option for busy gardeners or those new to green thumb endeavors.

Junior Giant Thuja (Thuja x ‘Junior Giant’ PP31,297p2)

Junior Giant Thuja (Thuja x ‘Junior Giant’ PP31,297p2)

The Junior Giant Thuja is a striking evergreen shrub that can grow up to 30 feet tall and 15 feet wide at maturity. Its massive size is the result of a cross between two giant species, Thuja plicata x Thuja occidentalis ‘Emerald Green’. This fast-growing shrub can reach heights of up to three feet per year, making it an ideal choice for those looking to add some instant gratification to their landscaping.

The Junior Giant’s pyramidal shape is adorned with dense, vibrant green foliage that retains its color throughout the winter months. Additionally, this plant boasts impressive deer resistance and tolerance of Black Walnut trees (Juglans nigra), making it a great option for areas prone to deer activity or where Walnut trees are present. The Junior Giant Thuja is best utilized as a specimen plant or in mass plantings, where its striking foliage can be showcased.

It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil, making it relatively low-maintenance. Pruning is only necessary if you want to control the shrub’s size or shape, allowing for a carefree experience with this beautiful evergreen.

Oriental Arborvitae (Platycladus orientalis or Thuja orientalis)

Oriental Arborvitae (Platycladus orientalis or Thuja orientalis)

Oriental Arborvitae, scientifically known as Platycladus orientalis or Thuja orientalis, is a species of tree that hails from East Asia. This evergreen conifer is also referred to as Chinese arborvitae, Oriental thuja, or biota. Its impressive stature reaches 15-20 meters in height, with a trunk diameter ranging from 60 centimeters to a significant 24 inches. The tree’s bark displays a beautiful brown or black coloration and features scaly patterns.

The scale-like leaves, arranged in opposite decussate pairs, boast a vibrant green to yellowish-green hue. The Oriental Arborvitae produces oval-shaped cones that measure 15-20 millimeters in length and 12-15 millimeters in width. These cones ripen from brown to blackish-brown during autumn, containing four to six seeds each. As the cones mature, they disintegrate to release the seeds onto short peduncles.

Native to northern China, Korea, and southeastern Siberia, Oriental Arborvitae has been successfully introduced to Europe, North America, Australia, and New Zealand as an ornamental tree. In some areas of the United States, it has become naturalized. Its wood is renowned for being soft and light, with a density of 310-550 kilograms per cubic meter or 19-34 pounds per cubic foot. This versatile timber is utilized in construction, pulp production, and fuel generation.

Moreover, Oriental Arborvitae is a popular choice as an ornamental tree, valued for its striking appearance and low-maintenance requirements.

Rheingold Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Rheingold’)

Rheingold Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Rheingold’)

With its vibrant golden-yellow foliage, Rheingold Arborvitae is an attractive evergreen option that excels as a hedge or natural privacy screen. Boasting exceptional hardiness and adaptability, this versatile plant thrives in a broad range of environments, making it an ideal choice for gardeners of all skill levels.

Techny’ Cold Hardy Thuja (Thuja occidentalis ‘Techny’)

Techny’ Cold Hardy Thuja (Thuja occidentalis ‘Techny’)

Techny’s Cold Hardy Thuja is a cultivar of the Arborvitae or White Cedar (Thuja occidentalis), introduced by Ball Horticultural Company in 1940. This variety stands out for its dense, compact growth habit, remarkable resistance to cold and wind, and tolerance of partial shade. It’s a popular choice for foundation plantings, hedges, and topiary designs.

Thuja occidentalis ‘Techny’ grows between 15-20 feet (450-600 cm) in height, with a spread of 12-15 feet (360-450 cm).

Its leaves are scale-like, arranged in flattened sprays, and feature a green to yellow-green color.

The plant’s flowers are small and white, blooming in clusters of 12-20 blooms. The fruit takes the form of a brown, woody cone. Notably, Techny’s Cold Hardy Thuja has no severe pest or disease issues and is considered relatively low maintenance.

Thuja Green Giant (Thuja plicata x standishii ‘Green Giant’)

Thuja Green Giant (Thuja plicata x standishii ‘Green Giant’)

Thuja Green Giant is a sought-after hybrid of two North American evergreens: Thuja plicata and Thuja standishii. Its remarkable growth rate enables it to add considerable height each year – up to three feet or more. Reaching maturity at 50-60 feet tall, with a spread of 20-30 feet, this evergreen has become a top choice for creating living screens or windbreaks.

Its rapid growth and dense, upright form make Thuja Green Giant an excellent option for crafting living fences.

When planted in rows, these evergreens will swiftly reach their mature height, forming an impenetrable barrier that provides both privacy and noise reduction.

In addition to its utility as a screen or windbreak, Thuja Green Giant is also prized as a specimen tree or focal point in the landscape. Its robust form and dense foliage make it a stunning addition to any yard.

Whether you’re seeking privacy, protection from the wind, or simply a beautiful evergreen tree, Thuja Green Giant is an outstanding choice.

Thuja occidentalis ‘Aurea Nana’

Thuja occidentalis ‘Aurea Nana’

Thuja occidentalis ‘Aurea Nana’ presents a unique combination of slow growth and compact habit, making it an ideal choice for small gardens. Its golden yellow needles gradually transition to a vibrant lime green during the summer months, providing year-round interest. This versatile plant thrives in full sun and is well-suited for small spaces. In terms of its environmental needs, Thuja occidentalis ‘Aurea Nana’ proves to be quite adaptable.

It can tolerate a range of soil types, but prefers well-drained soil conditions. Once established, it also exhibits drought tolerance. One of the greatest advantages of this plant is its low maintenance requirements – no pruning necessary! However, if you do choose to prune your Thuja occidentals ‘Aurea Nana’, consider doing so in late spring or early summer when the plant is at its most receptive.

Tiny Tower® Thuja (Thuja x ‘MonRig’ P.P.A.F.)

Tiny Tower® Thuja (Thuja x ‘MonRig’ P.P.A.F.)

Tiny Tower Thuja, a miniature evergreen, thrives in small gardens or as a low-growing hedge, requiring minimal maintenance. Its slow growth rate allows for easy control, topping out at 18 inches tall and wide. The aromatic, dark green leaves are arranged in flattened whorls around the stem, while white flowers bloom in clusters at stem tips in late spring. Following the blooms, small brownish-black fruits appear.

This hybrid plant, a patented cultivar of Thuja occidentalis and Thuja plicata, is easy to grow and adaptable to various conditions. It tolerates full sun or partial shade, drought, salt, and clay soils. Perfect for rock gardens, groundcover, or mass plantings, Tiny Tower Thuja’s versatility makes it an ideal choice.

Weeping Eastern Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Pendula’)

Weeping Eastern Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Pendula’)

Weeping Eastern Arborvitae, known as Thuja occidentalis ‘Pendula’, is a unique deciduous conifer that stands out with its drooping branches covered in soft, green needles. This beautiful tree can be used as a statement piece or as part of a hedge, adding texture and visual interest to any landscape.

Reaching heights of up to 20 feet (six meters) and widths of 12 feet (three meters), Weeping Eastern Arborvitae is a slow-growing species that thrives in conditions ranging from full sun to partial shade. Its adaptability also extends to soil quality, preferring well-drained grounds but tolerating urban pollution and salt spray with ease.

Western Arborvitae ‘Zebrina’ (Thuja Plicata ‘Zebrina’)

Western Arborvitae ‘Zebrina’ (Thuja Plicata ‘Zebrina’)

Western Arborvitae ‘Zebrina’ stands out from the crowd with its distinctive variegated foliage, featuring creamy-white and golden-yellow stripes. This cultivar of Thuja Plicata, also known as Western Redcedar, has a slower growth rate compared to other species in the same genus. Reaching heights of 15-20 feet (450-600 cm), ‘Zebrina’ is ideally suited for ornamental use in landscaping, where its unique coloration can be showcased.

While it’s not well-suited for hedging due to its slow growth rate, this arborvitae excels as a specimen plant or in small groupings. Native to the western coast of North America, from Alaska to Oregon, ‘Zebrina’ thrives in moist, well-drained soils and tolerates a wide range of growing conditions, making it a low-maintenance option. With its adaptability and resistance to disease and pests, this arborvitae is an excellent choice for those seeking a year-round interest in their landscape.

FAQs

What is the smallest upright arborvitae?

The Dwarf Korean Arborvitae stands out as the most diminutive of upright arborvitae varieties. Measuring just six feet in height and spreading three feet wide, it’s an ideal option for smaller gardens or serving as a low-maintenance hedge. What’s more, this hardy variety boasts exceptional cold tolerance, capable of withstanding temperatures as frigid as -20 degrees Fahrenheit.

For those seeking a compact arborvitae that still offers some degree of privacy, the Dwarf Korean Arborvitae is an excellent choice.

Is Thuja the same as arborvitae?

While some might assume that Thuja and arborvitae are interchangeable, these evergreen trees actually belong to distinct species. Thuja, a coniferous tree, is classified within the Cupressaceae family, whereas arborvitae, a deciduous tree, falls under the Taxaceae family. This divergence in classification translates to different growing habits and requirements for each species.

While Thuja may be substitutable for arborvitae in certain contexts, it’s crucial to select the appropriate tree for your specific needs to guarantee optimal growth and health.

What is the difference between Green Giant and emerald green arborvitae?

Both Green Giant and emerald green arborvitae are popular choices for landscaping, but they have distinct characteristics that set them apart. To make an informed decision, it’s essential to understand their differences. One key distinction lies in their growth rates. Green Giant is a hybrid with a rapid growth rate, adding up to three feet of height per year, making it ideal for achieving desired heights or creating privacy quickly.

In contrast, emerald green arborvitae has a slower growth rate and can grow up to 40 feet tall. This disparity is crucial when planning your landscape design. Another significant difference lies in their maintenance needs. Green Giant is renowned for its low-maintenance nature, requiring minimal pruning and trimming. On the other hand, while emerald green arborvitae is also relatively low-maintenance, it’s essential to note that it doesn’t tolerate heavy pruning like Green Giant does.

This distinction is vital when considering the upkeep required for each tree. In conclusion, understanding the differences between Green Giant and emerald green arborvitae can help you make a well-informed decision about which tree best suits your landscaping needs. While both trees have their unique characteristics, knowing their growth rates and maintenance requirements can help you achieve the desired outcome.

Are arborvitaes Cedars?

Arborvitae trees are often mistakenly identified as cedars, but in reality, they belong to a distinct juniper family. Although both types of evergreen trees feature needle-like leaves, their characteristics diverge significantly. Arborvitae trees boast scale-like foliage, whereas cedar trees are characterized by long, thin needles. Additionally, arborvitaes tend to grow in a pyramid shape, whereas cedars can assume either a pyramidal or columnar form.

Furthermore, cedar trees generally reach greater heights than their arborvitae counterparts. While superficially similar, these two tree species exhibit notable differences that set them apart.

Are Arborvitaes native?

Arborvitae’s origins may surprise you – they’re not indigenous to North America at all. Despite being commonly found in many American landscapes today, these evergreen conifers actually hail from parts of Asia and Europe. Over the years, they’ve been extensively cultivated here, leading to their widespread presence.

Are arborvitae trees poisonous to dogs?

When it comes to arborvitae trees and canine companions, we often receive the same query at our nursery. The straightforward response is that arborvitae are not toxic to dogs. Nevertheless, there are some essential considerations to keep in mind if you’re a dog owner with an arborvitae tree on your property.

One key aspect to be aware of is the tree’s evergreen nature, which means it produces needles rather than leaves.

These needles can be quite prickly, and if your dog has a tendency to chew, they might find themselves with a mouthful of sharp foliage. Furthermore, the sap produced by arborvitae trees can cause irritation to your dog’s skin and coat.

Conclusion

When it comes to selecting the perfect arborvitae trees for your yard, there’s a wide range of options to consider. From 24 unique types with distinct features, you’re sure to find one that fits your specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking to add beauty, provide shade, or enhance your outdoor space, an arborvitae tree can bring numerous benefits to your property. With so many varieties to choose from, take the time to explore each option and discover which one is right for you.

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