About
Thuja occidentalis 'Smokey' is an evergreen conifer cultivar in the Cupressaceae, derived from the species commonly called northern white‑cedar or arborvitae. It belongs to the genus Thuja and carries the compact, coniferous character associated with that group. Plants of this species are widely grown in ornamental planting. Expect variable habit depending on site; individuals can remain compact or become more open where conditions are less favourable.
About the genus
Thuja is a genus of coniferous tree or shrub in the Cupressaceae. There are five species in the genus, two native to North America and three native to eastern Asia. The genus is monophyletic and sister to Thujopsis.
Wikipedia contributors, "Thuja", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Thuja
In the garden
Thuja occidentalis 'Smokey' is a named cultivar of Thuja occidentalis, a member of the Cupressaceae family often grown in gardens. The species has a long history in cultivation and a natural range in eastern North America; cultivars such as 'Smokey' are selected from that genetic background for garden use. Where the species meets less favourable conditions it can be stunted or adopt a prostrate form, while in good positions it attains a more typical upright silhouette. For planting, choose a position that lets the plant express that upright habit if that is desired; poor sites have been shown to check vertical growth. Planting with adequate rootroom and avoiding chronically waterlogged or extremely exposed locations will reduce the likelihood of a stunted form. Routine formative pruning can help maintain shape where plants begin to widen or lose a clear leader. In a UK garden, Thuja occidentalis 'Smokey' suits uses where an evergreen conifer is wanted for structure — for example as a specimen on a lawn edge or as part of a mixed evergreen screen. Because the species can respond to site stress by remaining compact, expect 'Smokey' to stay relatively restrained in size in tighter or harsher spots and to grow taller in more favourable ground.
More in the Thuja genus
- Thuja occidentalis 'Southport'Northern White-Cedar
- Thuja plicata 'Excelsa'western red cedar 'Excelsa'
- Thuja plicata 'Kager's Beauty'Western Redcedar