Thuja occidentalis Mr. Bowling Ball (American Arborvitae)

Thuja occidentalis ‘Mr Bowling Ball’ (American Arborvitae) is a dwarf, evergreen shrub of compact, perfectly round shape with sprays of lacy, thread-like, blue-green foliage that is soft to the touch. Slow-growing, it forms a cute little sphere and makes a pretty addition to perennial beds, rock gardens and containers. Perfect for small gardens!

Thuja occidentalis 'Mr Bowling Ball' (American Arborvitae) is a dwarf, evergreen shrub of compact, perfectly round shape with sprays of lacy, thread-like, blue-green foliage that is soft to the touch. Slow-growing, it forms a cute little sphere and makes a pretty addition to perennial beds, rock gardens, and containers. Perfect for small gardens!

  • Grows up to 2-3 ft. tall and wide (60-90 cm).
  • A full sun lover, this plant is easily grown in average, moist, well-drained soils. Usually appreciates some light afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Bear in mind that foliage density loosens up in too much shade. Tolerates a wide range of soils. Thrives in humid weather with regular rainfalls. Intolerant of dry conditions. Protect from drying winds especially when young.
  • Perfect for beds and borders, rock gardens, and containers.
  • No serious insect or disease problems. May be affected by spider mites, bagworms, or coryneum canker.
  • Low maintenance, American arborvitae tolerates shearing well for a more tailored column. Prune in early spring before the onset of new growth. Provide a generous root zone mulch
  • Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings
  • Native to Northeastern United States, Mid-Atlantic United States, Southeastern United States, North-Central United States, Central United States, Canada

Requirements

Hardiness 3
– 7

Heat Zones 1
– 7

Climate Zones 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 15, 16, 17, 21, 22, 23, 24, A2, A3, H1, H2
Plant Type Conifers, Shrubs
Plant Family Thuja
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Early,Mid,Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)FallWinter
Height 2'
– 3'
(60cm
– 90cm)
Spread 2'
– 3'
(60cm
– 90cm)
Spacing 24″
– 36″
(60cm
– 90cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Fragrant, Showy, Evergreen
Attracts Birds
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers, Small Gardens
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage, Traditional Garden