Emerald Green Arborvitae

Photograph by: Abby Cali

What is this plant?

Emerald Green Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis) is an evergreen tree with scale-like leaves that are arranged in flattened fans. Arborvitae trees are a type of conifer. The leaves are green on top and yellow-green on the bottom. The tree can grow up to 40 feet tall and 20 feet wide. Emerald green arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis) is a popular ornamental tree and is often used as a Christmas tree.

Plant Information

Plant Type: Tree
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Height: Can grow up to 40 feet tall and 20 feet wide
Days to Maturity: Grow about 6-9 inches per year
Zone: 4-8
Color: Green, Yellow-Green
Bloom Time: N/A
Other: Used as natural privacy fence or christmas decor

Growing from Seed

Emerald Green Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis) can be grown from seed, but it is a slow-growing tree. It is best to start with a young tree from a nursery.

Growing from Seedling

Plant the seedling in a hole that is twice the size of the pot’s diameter. Set the plant in the hole so the root ball is level with the surface of the soil. Fill in the hole to cover the top of the root ball. Space your seedlings/plants about 6-8 feet apart. Spread a layer of compost/mulch on the surface of the soil to keep the plants moist and deter weed growth.

Growing & Care Tips

Emerald Green Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis) is a low-maintenance tree. It is drought-tolerant and does not need to be fertilized. The tree can be pruned to shape it, but it does not need to be pruned. Emerald green arborvitae is deer-resistant.

Plant Uses & Benefits

Deer-resistant
Ornamental Tree
Christmas Tree/Decor
Natural Privacy Fence

History of the Plant

The Emerald Green Arborvitae is native to North America. It was used by Native Americans for various purposes, including as a medicinal plant. An arborvitae was the first tree from North America to be introduced to Europe when French explorers brought the tree back from their expedition to Paris. The genus name, Thuja, is Latin for “tree of life.”