There are different types of Thuja, also known as arborvitae. Thuja is a genus of evergreen trees in the Cupressaceae family, and it includes several species and cultivars that vary in size, shape, and color. Let’s explore some of the different types of Thuja.
1. Thuja occidentalis: This is the most common species of Thuja and is native to North America. It is commonly known as the Eastern arborvitae or American arborvitae. It is a medium to large-sized tree with a conical or pyramidal shape. The foliage is dense and dark green, and it turns bronze or brown in winter. There are also cultivars available, such as ‘Emerald Green’ and ‘Techny’, which are popular for their compact, columnar forms.
2. Thuja plicata: This species is native to the Pacific Northwest of North America and is commonly called the Western red cedar or giant arborvitae. It is a large tree that can reach impressive heights. It has a narrow, conical shape and its foliage is dark green. Thuja plicata is often used as a windbreak or privacy screen in larger landscapes.
3. Thuja orientalis: This species is native to Asia and is commonly known as the Oriental arborvitae or Chinese arborvitae. It is a smaller tree compared to the other species, typically reaching heights of 20 to 30 feet. It has a dense, conical shape and its foliage is bright green. Thuja orientalis is often used in smaller gardens or as a hedge plant.
4. Thuja standishii: This species is native to Japan and is known as the Japanese arborvitae. It is a medium-sized tree with a pyramidal shape. The foliage of Thuja standishii is bright green and has a pleasant fragrance when crushed. It is a popular ornamental tree in Japan and is also cultivated in other parts of the world.
5. Thuja koraiensis: This species is native to Korea and is called the Korean arborvitae. It is a small to medium-sized tree with a rounded or oval shape. The foliage of Thuja koraiensis is dark green and has a fine texture. It is often used as a specimen tree in gardens or as a hedge plant.
These are just a few examples of the different types of Thuja available. Within each species, there are also many cultivars with unique characteristics, such as different foliage colors or growth habits. It’s important to consider the specific needs and preferences of each type of Thuja when selecting them for your landscape.
I have personally worked with various types of Thuja in landscaping projects, and each one has its own distinct beauty and charm. The Eastern arborvitae, Thuja occidentalis, is a versatile tree that can be used as a focal point, windbreak, or privacy screen. I’ve used the ‘Emerald Green’ cultivar to create a formal hedge, and its dense foliage and compact form make it ideal for this purpose.
The Western red cedar, Thuja plicata, is a majestic tree that adds a sense of grandeur to any landscape. I’ve planted them in larger properties as windbreaks, and their tall stature and dense foliage provide excellent protection from strong winds. The Oriental arborvitae, Thuja orientalis, is a charming tree that adds a touch of elegance to smaller gardens. I’ve used it as a specimen tree in a courtyard garden, and its compact size and bright green foliage create a focal point.
Thuja, or arborvitae, offers a wide range of options for different landscape needs. From the towering Western red cedar to the compact Oriental arborvitae, there is a Thuja variety suitable for every garden. The diverse shapes, sizes, and foliage colors of these trees make them a popular choice for homeowners and landscapers alike.
