shrub

Hiba Arborvitae

Thujopsis dolabrata

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

180 inches

Width

120 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers high humidity

Lifespan

Over 50 years

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

None reported

The Story

Plant Bio

An evergreen coniferous tree, often grown as a large shrub, with a dense, pyramidal habit. It features distinctive, flattened sprays of glossy, scale-like leaves that are dark green above and marked with prominent white stomatal bands beneath. The foliage is aromatic when crushed. The most distinctive feature is the foliage: broad, flattened sprays with glossy dark green scale-like leaves that reveal striking, silvery-white stomatal bands on the undersides, creating a beautiful two-toned effect. It is one of the 'Five Sacred Trees of Kiso' in Japan.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round greenery with a refined, conical shape suitable for shaded gardens.

Offers windbreak and privacy in shady areas.

Supports local insect and bird habitats with dense foliage.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a partially shaded spot with well-draining soil.
Tuck young plants into the ground in early spring or fall.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy, especially during first year.
Mist foliage in dry seasons to maintain humidity.
Mulch around base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Prune lightly after planting to shape and remove dead branches.

Pro Tip

Ensure good drainage and avoid full sun to prevent leaf scorch.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
Mulch to retain soil moisture
Prune lightly for shape

Don't

Avoid overexposure to direct sunlight ❌
Do not let soil stay waterlogged
Skip fertilizing in late fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Conical evergreen hedgeStructural accent in shady borders

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Japanese maples

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hiba Arborvitae questions

What zones can Hiba Arborvitae grow in?

Hiba Arborvitae is hardy in USDA Zones 5–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Hiba Arborvitae deer resistant?

Yes — Hiba Arborvitae is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Hiba Arborvitae bloom?

Hiba Arborvitae typically blooms in spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Hiba Arborvitae need full sun?

Hiba Arborvitae does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.