American Arborvitae (Thuja Occidentalis) is a perennial tree in the Cupressaceae family with easy care difficulty. It requires moderate watering and full sun or partial shade light in USDA hardiness zones 2-7. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets.

Thuja occidentalis is a slow-growing, evergreen conifer native to eastern North America, widely cultivated for its ornamental value and adaptability.

American Arborvitae

American Arborvitae

Thuja Occidentalis

Thuja occidentalis is a slow-growing, evergreen conifer native to eastern North America, widely cultivated for its ornamental value and adaptability.

Quick Facts

Type
tree
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Easy
Water Needs
Moderate
Light
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Hardiness Zones
2-7

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
☠️
Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:clay, loamy, sandy
Indoor:No
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:hedge, screen, windbreak, specimen

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for American Arborvitae

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

American Arborvitae
American Arborvitae detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Cupressaceae
Genus:Thuja