Species American arborvitae
lush-green bush with brown stems

American arborvitae

Thuja occidentalis 'Woodwardii'

American arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis 'Woodwardii') is an evergreen, cone-shape tree that can grow up to 20 to 30 feet tall and 10 to 12 feet wide. This broad-leafed tree is a popular landscape choice due to its dense foliage, forming a thick, green wall of privacy. The flattened, dark green sprays of foliage are a popular choice for hedges and windbreaks. Commonly known as ‘Woodwardii’, this species is versatile and quite hardy, tolerating various soil types and a wide range of climates. American arborvitae requires minimal maintenance, and it’s an ideal plant for beginners.

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

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

watering

American arborvitae should be watered deeply once a week, preferably in the morning. The soil should be kept slightly moist at all times. Water the American arborvitae until the soil is saturated and excess moisture is seen draining through the bottom of the pot. During hot and dry weather, it is important to water the plant more frequently. If the plant wilts, it may need to be watered immediately.

sunlight

American arborvitae prefers a partially shaded area with bright indirect sunlight for about 4-6 hours each day. The ideal location to plant this species is 1 that gets morning sunlight and then is shaded from the midday to late afternoon sun. Too much exposure to intense sunlight can damage the foliage and reduce its ability to survive. It is best to water this plant thoroughly and then allow the soil to dry out between waterings.

pruning

American arborvitae should generally be pruned in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Pruning should be done lightly and selectively, focusing mainly on shaping and removing any dead or damaged branches. It is important to remember to never remove more than 1-third of the plant in any given season. Pruning an American arborvitae can be done for a variety of reasons, including forming a hedge, controlling the shape or size of the tree, and removing any undesirable growth.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

American arborvitae typically start flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

American arborvitae typically start flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map