What Are the Different Types of Thuja Plant

The Thuja plant, also known as arborvitae, is a popular choice among gardeners and landscape designers due to its beautiful foliage and versatility. With its evergreen leaves and compact growth habit, this plant is suitable for a wide range of planting situations, from formal hedges to focal points in gardens. In this article, we will explore the different types of Thuja plants and their unique characteristics.

1. Thuja occidentalis

Also known as the Eastern arborvitae or American arborvitae, Thuja occidentalis is one of the most common species of Thuja. It is native to North America and can be found in various regions across the continent. This species is known for its narrow, conical shape and dense foliage, making it an excellent choice for privacy screens and windbreaks. The leaves are dark green and scale-like, giving the plant a lush appearance.

Thuja occidentalis cultivars come in various sizes, ranging from small shrubs to tall trees. Some popular cultivars include ‘Emerald Green,’ which has a compact growth habit and maintains its vibrant green color throughout the year, and ‘Techny,’ which is a fast-growing variety that can reach heights of up to 15 feet.

2. Thuja plicata

Thuja plicata, commonly known as Western red cedar or giant arborvitae, is another widely grown species of Thuja. Unlike Thuja occidentalis, Thuja plicata is native to the Pacific Northwest region of North America. It is a large tree that can reach heights of up to 200 feet in its natural habitat.

This species is known for its thick, fibrous bark and reddish-brown wood, which has been used by indigenous cultures for various purposes, including building canoes and totem poles. Thuja plicata has a pyramidal shape with drooping branches and scale-like leaves that are dark green in color. It is often used as a specimen tree in large landscapes due to its impressive size and attractive foliage.

3. Thuja orientalis

Thuja orientalis, commonly known as Oriental arborvitae, is native to eastern Asia, including China, Korea, and Japan. This species is more cold-sensitive compared to other Thuja plants and is typically grown in warmer climates. Thuja orientalis has a pyramidal shape and dense foliage consisting of small, scale-like leaves that are green or yellow-green in color.

Cultivars of Thuja orientalis offer a range of options for gardeners. ‘Aurea Nana’ is a dwarf variety with golden-yellow foliage that adds a bright pop of color to gardens or containers. ‘Aurea’ is another popular cultivar known for its yellow-green foliage that turns bronze in the winter months.

4. Thuja koraiensis

Thuja koraiensis, also known as Korean arborvitae, is native to Korea and parts of China and Russia. This species has a conical shape with dense foliage consisting of dark green leaves that are larger than those of other Thuja species. Thuja koraiensis is prized for its resistance to deer browsing and tolerance to harsh weather conditions, making it an excellent choice for gardens in colder regions.

One popular cultivar of Thuja koraiensis is ‘Glauca,’ which has bluish-green foliage that adds a touch of elegance to any landscape. Another notable cultivar is ‘Golden Globe,’ which forms a compact, rounded shape with vibrant golden-yellow foliage.

5. Thuja standishii

Thuja standishii, commonly known as Japanese arborvitae, is native to Japan and can be found in various regions of the country. This species has a narrow, columnar shape and dense foliage consisting of dark green leaves that are often tinged with bronze in the winter months. Thuja standishii is highly valued for its ornamental qualities and is often used as a focal point in gardens or as a privacy screen.

Cultivars of Thuja standishii include ‘Hikari,’ which has a compact growth habit and bright yellow foliage that turns orange in the winter, and ‘Variegata,’ which has green and cream-colored variegated foliage that adds visual interest to any landscape.

In conclusion, the Thuja plant offers a wide range of options for gardeners and landscape designers. From the popular Thuja occidentalis to the impressive Thuja plicata and the unique characteristics of Thuja orientalis, Thuja koraiensis, and Thuja standishii, there is a Thuja species suitable for every planting situation. Whether you are looking for a privacy screen, an attractive specimen tree, or a vibrant pop of color in your garden, consider incorporating one of these Thuja plants into your landscape design.