Thuja Green Giant (Arborvitae)

Tall and narrow, Thuja standishii × plicata ‘Green Giant’ (Arborvitae) is a majestic, evergreen tree of conical to pyramidal habit with sprays of rich glossy green foliage year-round. Fast-growing, up to 5 ft. per year (150 cm), it is regarded as a disease-free substitute for Leland cypress. Forming a majestic exclamation point in the landscape, it is excellent as a specimen plant and for screens or hedges. 

Tall and narrow, Thuja standishii × plicata ‘Green Giant’ (Arborvitae) is a majestic, evergreen tree of conical to pyramidal habit with sprays of rich glossy green foliage year-round. Fast-growing, up to 5 ft. per year (150 cm), it is regarded as a disease-free substitute for Leland cypress. Forming a majestic exclamation point in the landscape, it is excellent as a specimen plant and for screens or hedges. 

  • Grows up to 40-60 ft. tall (12-18 m) and 12-18 ft. wide (3.5-5.5 m). Can be kept more compact by pruning.
  • A full sun lover, this plant is easily grown in moist, fertile, well-drained soils. Usually appreciates some light afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Thrives in cool summer climates. Intolerant of dry conditions. Protect from drying winds especially when young.
  • Perfect as a specimen plant or hedges and screens.
  • No serious insect or disease problems. May be affected by scale insects, conifer aphids and coryneum canker.
  • Low maintenance, no pruning required, unless grown as a hedge
  • Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings
  • Native to the Pacific Northwest

Requirements

Hardiness 5
– 8

Heat Zones 6
– 8

Climate Zones 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, A3
Plant Type Conifers, Trees
Plant Family Thuja
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Early,Mid,Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)FallWinter
Height 40'
– 60'
(12m
– 18m)
Spread 12'
– 18'
(3.6m
– 5.4m)
Spacing 60″
– 72″
(150cm
– 180cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy, Evergreen
Attracts Birds
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Hedges and Screens
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage, Traditional Garden