Thuja Emerald Green Arborvitae

Thuja Emerald Green

The Thuja Emerald Green, also known as Thuja occidentalis 'Emerald' or Eastern arborvitae, is a lush, vibrant evergreen that holds a prestigious standing among landscaping trees. Its elegant, conical shape and rich, emerald green foliage make it a highly coveted option for homeowners, landscapers, and green thumbs alike.

The Thuja Emerald Green tree is also commonly known as:

• Emerald Arborvitae
• Smaragd Arborvitae
• Eastern Arborvitae (this refers to its species, Thuja occidentalis, rather than the specific 'Emerald' cultivar)
• American Arborvitae
• White Cedar (although this is more commonly used for the species overall, rather than the 'Emerald' cultivar specifically)

These names can vary depending on region and local common names. However, the botanical name Thuja occidentalis 'Emerald' or 'Smaragd' (Smaragd being Danish for Emerald) is universally recognized by botanists and horticulturists.

The Beauty of Thuja Emerald Green

One of the most attractive features of the Thuja Emerald Green is its strikingly beautiful foliage. This variety boasts a dense, compact growth of bright green, scale-like leaves that persist year-round, providing a continuous splash of color even in the heart of winter. Growing in a neat, natural pyramidal form, these trees require minimal pruning to maintain their shape, adding to their appeal as a low-maintenance choice.

The Thuja Emerald Green reaches a mature height of about 12-15 feet, with a spread of 3-4 feet, making it an excellent option for creating privacy screens, windbreaks, or sound barriers. Its resilient nature allows it to withstand a variety of challenging weather conditions, including wind and snow, further accentuating its suitability for these roles.

History and Heritage

Native to North America, the Thuja has a rich and storied history. The genus name 'Thuja' originates from a Greek word, 'thuya,' which means 'to fumigate,' in reference to the aromatic properties of the tree's leaves when crushed. The species name 'occidentalis' means 'of the west' in Latin, referring to the Western world as known during the time of the tree's discovery.

Historically, indigenous tribes of North America utilized different parts of the tree for their medicinal properties and as a source of Vitamin C. Today, while it is primarily valued for its ornamental appeal, the Thuja's aromatic leaves are still used in some traditional herbal remedies.

Why Choose Thuja Emerald Green

There are several key advantages to choosing Thuja Emerald Green for your landscape:

Adaptability: Thuja Emerald Green trees are adaptable to a wide range of soil conditions, and once established, they are drought-tolerant. They are hardy in USDA zones 3-7, making them suitable for a wide range of climates across the country.

Fast-Growing: This variety is fast-growing, adding up to 2 feet per year under optimal conditions. This makes them an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a fast solution for privacy or aesthetic enhancement.

Disease and Pest Resistance: Thuja Emerald Green trees have a natural resistance to many common tree diseases and pests. They are less likely to suffer from problems such as canker, leaf blight, or bagworms, that often plague other trees.

Low Maintenance: Aside from watering during dry spells, the Thuja Emerald Green requires little to no upkeep. It retains its pleasing shape without the need for regular trimming.

Bringing a Thuja Emerald Green into your landscape is more than just adding a tree; it's adding a legacy of beauty and resilience that has stood the test of time. Experience the allure of this remarkable tree and elevate your outdoor space to new heights of elegance and tranquility.