Thuja 'Emerald Green' is a narrow upright evergreen prized for its compact columnar form and vibrant emerald green foliage that retains color year round. Ideal for privacy screens, hedging, and formal accents, it provides structure and color in all seasons with minimal maintenance.
Height & Spread: 10 - 15 ft x 3 - 4 ft
Bloom Time: Non flowering ornamental
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained soil; adaptable to clay and loam
Watering Needs: Moderate; water regularly during establishment
Deer Resistance: Low; susceptible to deer browsing
Native Status
This cultivar is derived from Thuja occidentalis, a species native to eastern North America. While 'Smaragd' is a cultivated variety, it shares many of the species’ ecological attributes.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Birds
- Provides nesting cover and winter shelter for songbirds such as chickadees and sparrows; small cones offer food for finches and crossbills.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 3 - 4 ft apart for dense screening or 5 - 6 ft apart when used as individual accents.
Landscape Placement
- Use as a formal hedge, privacy screen, or evergreen backdrop in foundation plantings, narrow borders, or garden entries.
Companion Plants
- Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle' - Offers bold white blooms that contrast well with the vertical form of arborvitae.
- Panicum virgatum 'Northwind' - Adds airy texture and movement while tolerating similar soils and light.
- Heuchera 'Autumn Bride' - Brightens the base with chartreuse foliage and white flower wands in late summer.
- Boxwood 'Buxus' - Adds structure and low evergreen form beneath or alongside tall screening plants.
- Rosa rugosa - Offers seasonal color and textural contrast while tolerating harsh conditions.