Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’
(previously known as Thuja occidentalis ‘Emerald Green’)
Overview
Uses: Privacy hedging, foundation planting, screens, formal accents, containers, windbreaks.
Benefits: Dense, columnar evergreen form with rich emerald color that holds well through winter. Maintains a clean shape with minimal pruning and fits neatly into tight spaces.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 3–8
Sun: Full Sun to Partial Sun/Shade
Life Cycle: Evergreen Shrub
Growth Habit: Columnar, Pyramidal — narrow upright form with a tapered crown.
Mature Height: 10–12 feet
Mature Width: 3–4 feet
Bloom Season: N/A
Growth Rate: Moderate
Summary
Clean, evergreen structure in a narrow footprint—‘Smaragd’ is a go-to choice when you want year-round color and privacy without constant pruning.
Often sold as Emerald Green Arborvitae, this Thuja occidentalis cultivar forms a dense, vertical screen with soft, feathery foliage and a naturally tidy silhouette. It works beautifully as a formal hedge, a single accent plant, or a repeated rhythm along fences, walkways, and property lines.
Its dependable winter presence makes it especially valuable in northern landscapes, while its compact width helps it fit comfortably in foundation beds and smaller yards. In containers, it adds evergreen height and structure to patios and entryways through every season.
Care
Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’ Care
Grow in full sun to partial shade. In hotter climates, afternoon shade can help reduce stress during peak summer heat.
Plant in well-drained soil and water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, maintain even moisture during dry periods, avoiding consistently wet soils.
Fertilization is optional but can support steady growth in lean soils. Apply a
slow release fertilizer
in spring according to label directions.
Pruning is minimal. If you need to refine the outline, lightly trim in late spring or early summer, staying within green growth. Avoid cutting back into thick, woody stems.
For hedging, space plants approximately 3–4 feet apart depending on how quickly you want a full screen.
Container Growing Notes: ‘Smaragd’ performs well in large containers with excellent drainage. Container plantings dry faster than in-ground plantings and may need more frequent watering in warm weather. Use an appropriately sized pot to reduce rapid drying and root temperature swings.
Plants hardy in the ground may require winter protection when grown in containers in colder zones.
Size
What Size is the Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’ for Sale Online?
Plants ship in a greenhouse-grade grow pot and are well rooted and actively growing at the time of shipment. Each plant is sized appropriately for its container. If you need additional details before ordering, please
contact us.
How Large Does Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’ Grow?
At maturity, plants typically reach 10–12 feet tall and 3–4 feet wide, forming a dense, narrow screen with a naturally tapered top.
Additional Information
What are some common names for this plant?
It is most commonly sold as Emerald Green Arborvitae and is also widely known as ‘Smaragd’ Arborvitae.
What makes ‘Smaragd’ different from other arborvitaes?
‘Smaragd’ is valued for its naturally narrow, dense form and consistent evergreen color. It typically holds its shape with minimal pruning, making it a strong option for more formal landscapes and tighter planting areas.
Is this a good choice for privacy hedging?
Yes. Its columnar shape and dense foliage make it well suited for screens and hedges, especially when planted in a row. For more options that fit similar uses, browse our
Privacy Trees & Shrubs
collection.
Is Thuja occidentalis native to North America?
Yes. The species Thuja occidentalis is native to North America, though ‘Smaragd’ is a cultivated selection.
