About
A compact, columnar, evergreen coniferous tree, slowly maturing to a maximum height of 1.8m (6ft) and 1m (39in) across. Producing dense, flat sparays of bright yellow-green foliage, turning to a warm, amber shade in autumn. Its strictly conical form is useful as an architectural focal point in a garden, as well as being a good addition to city and courtyard gardens, where ultimate size is an important consideration.
About the genus
Thuja are fast-growing evergreen trees of narrowly conical habit, with flat sprays of tiny, aromatic, scale-like leaves and small knobbly cones
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
ToxicityHarmful if eaten, skin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationGrows well in any moist, but well-drained soil in full sun
PruningNo pruning required unless grown as hedging. See: hedges and trimming hedges
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to scale insects and conifer aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus and other fungal diseases, particularly thuja blight and Coryneum canker (see conifers: brown patches)