Thuja occidentalis ‘Hetz Midget’
Overview
Uses: Foundation plantings, evergreen accents, low hedges, mixed borders, containers, urban gardens.
Benefits: Compact, dense evergreen shrub with reliable green color year-round and a naturally tidy form that rarely needs pruning. Durable and adaptable, including tolerance of heavier soils once established.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 3–7
Sun: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Life Cycle: Evergreen Shrub
Growth Habit: Rounded, Mounding — dense globe-like form that broadens with age.
Foliage Color: Green
Mature Height: 3–4 feet
Mature Width: 4–5 feet
Bloom Season: Insignificant
Growth Rate: Slow
Summary
A tough, compact evergreen that keeps its shape and color through every season.
Thuja occidentalis ‘Hetz Midget’ is a cold-hardy dwarf arborvitae valued for its dense branching and naturally rounded habit. It brings year-round structure to foundation beds, entry plantings, and mixed borders without taking over the space, and it looks especially clean when repeated in groups.
This variety performs well in full sun to partial shade and is a practical choice for landscapes that need dependable evergreen color with minimal upkeep. It’s also a smart option for busier areas—adding soft texture and four-season presence where you want plants that simply stay looking good.
Care
Hetz Midget Arborvitae Care
Plant in full sun to partial shade. For the densest growth, provide at least 6 hours of direct sun.
Prefers well-drained soil but adapts to many garden soils. Water regularly during establishment and avoid consistently soggy conditions.
Once established, water during extended dry periods to keep foliage full and reduce stress.
If fertilization is desired, apply slow release fertilizer in early spring.
Pruning is rarely necessary. If shaping is needed, trim lightly in late spring and avoid cutting back into thick, older wood.
Mulching over the root zone helps retain moisture and moderate soil temperature.
Container Growing: This shrub can be grown in containers with good drainage and a quality potting mix. Container-grown plants require more frequent watering than in-ground plantings. Plants hardy in the ground may require winter protection when grown in containers in colder zones.
Size
What Size is the Hetz Midget Arborvitae for Sale Online?
Plants ship in a greenhouse-grade grow pot and are actively growing at the time of shipment. Size and fullness vary by season and growth stage. If you have specific sizing questions, please contact us.
How Large Does Hetz Midget Arborvitae Grow?
At maturity, this compact evergreen shrub typically reaches 3–4 feet tall and 4–5 feet wide, forming a dense, rounded mound that broadens gently with age.
Additional Information
What are some common names for this plant?
Commonly known as American arborvitae and eastern arborvitae.
How is ‘Hetz Midget’ different from other dwarf arborvitae?
‘Hetz Midget’ typically matures wider than many “button” or mini globe types and develops a dense, rounded mound. It’s a good choice when you want a compact evergreen with a fuller, broader footprint for foundation beds or low structure.
Can it be used in urban or roadside plantings?
It’s often chosen for its durable, adaptable nature in many landscape settings. Consistent watering during establishment and avoiding salt spray and severe winter burn exposure will help it look its best.
What are some related evergreen options?
If you’re building four-season structure, explore our Evergreen Plants collection and our Shrubs & Bushes collection.
