Thuja arborvitae
Description: The ‘Green Giant’ arborvitae is a robust, needled evergreen tree belonging to the cypress family. It is a hybrid cultivar, combining the traits of the western redcedar and the Japanese arborvitae. This tree is known for its rapid growth, reaching 3 to 4 feet per year under optimal conditions. It can grow to a height of 50 feet with a spread of 15 feet.
Twig/Bark: This tree features dense, low-branching twigs, which contribute to its columnar-pyramidal form. The bark is reddish-brown and fibrous, adding to its overall durability and resistance to damage.
Leaves: It has dark green sprays of small, glossy, scale-like needles that remain vibrant throughout the winter, contributing to its year-round ornamental appeal. The foliage is dense and grows in flat sprays, creating a lush, uniform appearance.
Flower/Fruit: While ‘Green Giant’ arborvitae is non-flowering, it produces small, oblong cones about 0.5 inches in length. These cones start green and turn brown as they mature, persisting on the tree and adding subtle texture to its appearance.
Habitat: This tree thrives in moist, full-sun locations with some light afternoon shade. It tolerates a wide range of soils but does not perform well in salty environments, either from spray or soil. ‘Green Giant’ arborvitae is highly resistant to diseases, insects, drought, and deer, making it a low-maintenance option for many landscapes.