Thuja - Thuja

Cupressaceae

Our Thuja

The thuja genus counts 6 species. Other akin and similar-looking Chamaecyparis variants have also only few species. Both grow to symmetrically conical trees. Normally, their fan-shaped branches are densely covered with scales. However, there are exceptional species with mossy soft needles, so no-one could think such tree is a thuja specie. Both leaf types have their special aromatic smell, which is particularly persistent on chopped thuja.

Thujas’ considerable variety provides interesting alternatives to its neutral and restrained-looking wild forms. The monoecious blossoms and cones emerging from them are inconspicuous. In numerous cultures they are not formed at all. The root system is flat and far-reaching and can well resist root pressure from large trees. It is particularly noteworthy that thuja species well tolerate cutting, although their resilience and regeneration ability are significantly lower than in yew trees.

Species and variety overview

A. Habits

Medium-sized trees

Small tree

Large and normal shrubs

Small and dwarf shrubs

B. Special habits

Conical shape

Column shapes

Spherical shapes

C. Leaf colours

Light or fresh green

Golden-yellow or yellow-green

Choose your Thuja

Thuja occidentalis

American Arbor-vitae

15 to 20 m

3 to 5 m