Grow in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Somewhat wide range of soil tolerance, but prefers moist, neutral to alkaline, well-drained loams. Intolerant of dry conditions. Best in full sun, but generally appreciates some light afternoon shade in hot summer climates such as the St. Louis area. Avoid full shade where foliage density will substantially decrease. Avoid exposed, windy sites.
Thuja occidentalis, commonly known as American arborvitae, is a dense, conical to narrow-pyramidal (sometimes maturing to broad-pyramidal), often single-trunked, evergreen tree that is native to eastern and central Canada south to northern Illinois, Ohio and New York with scattered populations further south in the Appalachians to North Carolina. Species trees will grow to 60’ tall. Over 300 cultivars have been selected over the years, and differentiating between selections has become extremely difficult. Aurea Group plants are basically forms that feature yellow foliage, ranging from trees (e.g., T. occidentalis ‘Douglasii Aurea’ -- narrow pyramidal to 45’ tall) to dwarf forms (e.g., T. occidentalis ‘Aurea’ – globose to 2’3’ x 2-3’). Seed cones, if present, are not particularly showy. Arborvitae means tree of life.
No serious insect or disease problems. Leaf blight may cause some foliage to spot and drop. Watch for canker. Leaf miner may damage leaf tips. Bagworms, mealybugs, scales and spider mites are occasional visitors. Foliage may show some winter burn (turns yellow-brown) in exposed sites. Susceptible to damage/stem breakage in winter from ice and snow accumulations.
Use depends upon form. Taller plants make good screens. Dwarf plants make good foundation plants, hedges or edging.
Thank You!
The Garden wouldn't be the Garden without our Members, Donors and Volunteers.
Info for
Main Navigation
Quick Links
Missouri Botanical Garden
4344 Shaw Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63110(314) 577-5100 hours and admission
Butterfly House
Faust Park, 15193 Olive Blvd. Chesterfield, MO 63017(636) 530-0076 hours and admission
Shaw Nature Reserve
Hwy. 100 & I-44 Gray Summit, MO 63039(636) 451-3512 hours and admission