Species American arborvitae

American arborvitae

Thuja occidentalis 'Recurva Nana'

American arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis 'Recurva Nana') is an evergreen conifer, a slow-growing, dwarf selection of the species. It grows to less than 5 feet in height and spreads up to 4 feet wide. Its dense foliage turns a golden yellow-green in winter and stays soft and scaly all year long. Its small, deep green leaves form dense layers, giving it a bold texture and providing an effective windbreak and privacy screen. It thrives in full to part sun and is quite adaptable to a variety of soil conditions. American arborvitae is a perfect choice for an evergreen hedge or border plant in any landscape.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Greenwood Cuttings,Greenwood Cuttings,Hardwood Cuttings

Hardiness Zone:

2 - 7

Flowers:

Non-flowering Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Full sun, Part sun/part shade

Soil:

Sandy Loamy Clay Rocky

Cones:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Maintenance:

Low

Care Level:

Low

watering

American arborvitae is an evergreen species that requires consistent moisture throughout the growing season. During the spring and summer months, water American arborvitae at least once weekly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. During the winter months, only water the plant when the soil is dry. If rainfall is sufficient, supplemental watering may not be necessary. Make sure the plant is receiving at least 1 inch of water per week.

sunlight

American arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis 'Recurva Nana') needs full sun for best growth, but tolerates light shade. During the growing season, it should be exposed to at least 5 to 6 hours of direct sun per day. In winter, when the plant is dormant, it can handle slightly less sunlight, so 4 hours a day is sufficient. American arborvitae can also benefit from some afternoon shade, especially in hot climates.

pruning

American arborvitae should be pruned in late winter or early spring (February or March), before the spring growth begins. Pruning can be done every 3 to 5 years, depending on the purpose. The arborvitae will benefit from regular light pruning in order to maintain its natural pyramidal form. It’s best to remove over-long side branches, deadwood, and buds that would grow out of proportion to the shape. Make sure to prune back into the green wood and avoid removing more than half of the height of the tree. When pruning, always use sharp, clean garden tools to avoid damage to the branches.

Hardiness Map