Thuja ‘Junior Giant’
(previously known as Thuja standishii × plicata ‘Junior Giant’)
Overview
Uses: Privacy screens, hedges, windbreaks, evergreen backdrops, property borders, larger foundation plantings.
Benefits: Fast-growing, dense evergreen with a naturally narrow footprint and strong branching for quick, reliable screening. Holds rich green color through winter and typically needs minimal pruning to stay tidy.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 5–8
Sun: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Life Cycle: Evergreen Tree
Growth Habit: Pyramidal, Upright — dense canopy with a strong central leader.
Foliage Color: Green
Mature Height: 15–20 feet
Mature Width: 4–6 feet
Bloom Season: Insignificant
Growth Rate: Fast
Summary
Big privacy energy in a more controlled, landscape-friendly footprint.
Thuja ‘Junior Giant’ is an evergreen tree valued for its quick growth and dense branching—ideal when you want a screen sooner, without committing to the full size of larger arborvitae types. Its pyramidal form creates clean structure along property lines and makes a dependable green backdrop for mixed borders.
The foliage stays attractive year-round, holding color through winter while providing consistent shelter and visual separation. With good spacing and simple watering during establishment, it settles in quickly and maintains a naturally neat shape with only occasional trimming.
Care
Junior Giant 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 soil types. Avoid consistently waterlogged sites.
Water deeply and regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. Once established, water during extended dry periods for best color and growth.
If fertilization is desired, apply slow release fertilizer in early spring.
Pruning is optional. Light shaping can be done in early spring before new growth, or after the first flush of growth in late spring.
Size
What Size is the Junior Giant 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 Junior Giant Arborvitae Grow?
At maturity, this evergreen tree typically reaches 15–20 feet tall and 4–6 feet wide. It develops a pyramidal form that works well for screening while staying more manageable in tighter landscapes than many larger arborvitae.
Additional Information
What are some common names for this plant?
Commonly known as arborvitae, Junior Giant arborvitae, and western arborvitae hybrid.
How far apart should I space it for a privacy hedge?
For a dense screen, space plants about 5–7 feet apart, depending on how quickly you want the hedge to knit together and how much airflow you want between plants at maturity. For a looser, more natural screen, give them a bit more room.
Is it deer resistant?
Arborvitae can be browsed in areas with heavy deer pressure, especially in winter. If deer are a consistent concern, consider planting within a protected area and explore additional options in our Deer-Resistant Shrubs and Evergreens collection.
What are some similar options for screening?
If you’re planning a mixed screen or comparing arborvitae types, browse our Privacy Trees & Shrubs collection and our Evergreen Plants collection.
