Emerald Green Arborvitae
Thuja occidentalis Smaragd
Smaragd
About this plant
Thuja occidentalis 'Smaragd', commonly known as Emerald Green Arborvitae, is a popular evergreen shrub valued for its dense, bright green foliage and narrow, conical shape. It grows steadily and maintains a neat appearance year-round, making it ideal for hedges, privacy screens, or as a standalone ornamental plant. It is hardy and adapts well to various garden settings.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Thuja
- Family
- Cupressaceae
- Higher classification
- Order: Pinales
- Plant type
- Shrub
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Northeastern North America
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated in North America and Europe, especially in temperate regions.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 5–10 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- -40 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 15-25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 3-7
- Soil pH
- 6.0-8.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam or sandy soil
Watering. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. Once established, water during prolonged dry periods. Avoid waterlogging the soil.
Fertilizing. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can cause excessive, weak growth.
This plant is quite tough and easy to care for. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is drought tolerant once established but benefits from occasional watering during dry spells. Pruning is minimal and mainly for shaping.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Layering
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- No
Dense, bright emerald-green foliage with a narrow, conical form that holds color year-round.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Generally non-toxic but may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Keep away from pets that may chew on foliage.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Moderate
Thuja occidentalis 'Smaragd' can produce pollen that may cause mild allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, especially during its pollination season. People with pollen allergies should minimize exposure during this time and consider planting it away from frequently used outdoor areas.
Common problems
Overwatering can cause root rot, and poor drainage may lead to yellowing foliage. Occasionally, spider mites or bagworms may affect the plant.
Uses
Commonly used as a decorative hedge, privacy screen, or foundation planting in gardens and landscapes.
Notes
Prune lightly in early spring to maintain shape. Avoid heavy pruning into old wood as it may not regrow well. Repotting is generally not applicable since it is usually grown outdoors.