Eastern Arborvitae
Lives up to 800 years in the wild
Eastern Arborvitae is one of the most popular conifers in horticulture, and quite deservedly so. Originating from north-eastern North America, it arrived in European gardens over three centuries ago, where it immediately won the hearts of gardeners with its hardiness and charming appearance. Today, Eastern Arborvitae is a true classic, seen on every continent, from small urban gardens to magnificent estates.
The extraordinary diversity of forms and colours is what makes this plant indispensable in landscaping. There are dwarf varieties just 30–50 cm tall and tall-growing cultivars reaching 15 metres, columnar and broad-rounded forms, with bright green and golden foliage. 'Emerald', 'Smaragd', 'Yellow Ribbon' — each variety has its own character. Dense evergreen foliage provides lush greenery even in the coldest months of the year. When light falls at a certain angle, the scale-like leaves shimmer with golden gleams — pure magic!
In the garden, Eastern Arborvitae is a universal helper. It forms excellent hedges, creates a backdrop for vibrant flowerbeds, looks formal in structured compositions and romantic in natural-style gardens. It pairs beautifully with junipers, box, spiraea and other trees and shrubs. This plant tolerates urban pollution and is moderately resistant to diseases and pests, making it suitable for conditions where other conifers hesitate.
And here is the most enchanting fact: in the wild, these trees manage to live up to 800 years! Imagine — a tree that has witnessed more than eight centuries of change in the world. This fact transforms every planted sapling into a symbol of continuity and a gift to future generations. No wonder gardeners are so deeply fond of this plant — it promises to be a faithful companion for generations to come.
Eastern Arborvitae — planting & location
Evergreen, coniferous, suitable for hedging
How to water Eastern Arborvitae
Water regularly during the first year
Fertilizing and pruning: Eastern Arborvitae
Remove no more than 1/3 of new growth at a time