Is emerald green arborvitae also known as Thuja?

Emerald green arborvitae is also known as Thuja occidentalis ‘Emerald’. Thuja is the botanical name for the genus of evergreen trees and shrubs that includes various species, such as Thuja occidentalis (American arborvitae), Thuja plicata (Western red cedar), and Thuja orientalis (Oriental arborvitae). The specific cultivar ‘Emerald’ refers to a particular selection within the species Thuja occidentalis.

Thuja occidentalis ‘Emerald’ is a popular choice for many gardeners and landscapers due to its narrow, pyramidal shape and its dense, emerald green foliage. It maintains its vibrant green color throughout the year, even during the winter months. This makes it an excellent choice for adding year-round visual interest to your landscape.

One of the notable characteristics of emerald green arborvitae is its ability to thrive in hot and humid climates, particularly in the southern regions. It is well-suited to withstand the challenges posed by high temperatures and humidity, making it an ideal choice for areas with such climate conditions.

Additionally, emerald green arborvitae is known for its tolerance to dry spells once it is established. This means that once the plant has developed a strong root system, it can withstand periods of drought without significant damage. However, it is important to note that newly planted arborvitae may require regular watering until they become established.

One of the reasons why emerald green arborvitae is highly regarded is its effectiveness as a screening plant or tall hedge. Due to its dense foliage and its upright growth habit, it can provide excellent privacy and create a natural barrier between different areas of your garden or property. This makes it a popular choice for those seeking to create boundaries or hide unsightly views.

In my personal experience as a gardener, I have used emerald green arborvitae in several landscaping projects, and it has proven to be a reliable and visually appealing choice. Its narrow shape allows it to fit into tight spaces, making it versatile for various design purposes. I have witnessed how it can transform an open area into a private and secluded space, providing a sense of enclosure and tranquility.

To summarize, emerald green arborvitae, also known as Thuja occidentalis ‘Emerald’, is a popular and effective shrub for screening or tall hedge use. Its dense, emerald green foliage retains its color throughout the year, and it thrives in hot and humid conditions found in the southern regions. It is also tolerant of dry spells once established. These qualities, combined with its narrow, pyramidal shape, make it a versatile and visually appealing choice for landscaping projects.

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Caroline Bates

Caroline is a Miami-based landscaper who specializes in drought-tolerant landscapes. She is the mother of two young children and also enjoys writing for GreenPacks.org in her spare time. Caroline takes great pride in her work, and loves being able to share her knowledge with others through her writing.