Dwarf Golden Arborvitae
Thuja orientalis 'Aurea Nana'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
60 inches
Width
48 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
20+ years
Native To
Eastern Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Platycladus orientalis (formerly Thuja orientalis) 'Aurea Nana' is a dwarf, evergreen conifer with a dense, globose to oval habit. Its scale-like foliage is arranged in vertical sprays and maintains a bright golden-yellow color, especially on new growth. This cultivar is particularly valued for its slow growth and vibrant color, making it an excellent choice for small gardens, borders, or container planting where year-round color is desired.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck evergreen seeds or cuttings into well-drained soil in spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist, especially during first year.
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Prune lightly in early spring to maintain shape.
- Fertilize with balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
- Monitor for pests and diseases, treat as needed.
Pro Tip
Ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering for best results.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Prune lightly in early spring to shape
- Mulch to retain moisture
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t prune in late summer or fall
- Avoid heavy fertilization
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Dwarf Golden Arborvitae questions
What zones can Dwarf Golden Arborvitae grow in?
Dwarf Golden Arborvitae is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Dwarf Golden Arborvitae deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Dwarf Golden Arborvitae, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Dwarf Golden Arborvitae bloom?
Dwarf Golden Arborvitae typically blooms in late fall through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Dwarf Golden Arborvitae need full sun?
Dwarf Golden Arborvitae does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Dwarf Golden Arborvitae drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Dwarf Golden Arborvitae handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Thuja to compare
Green Giant Arborvitae
Thuja occidentalis 'Green Giant'
Emerald Green Arborvitae
Thuja occidentalis 'Emerald Green'
Emerald Green Arborvitae
Thuja occidentalis 'Smaragd Emerald'
American Pillar Arborvitae
Thuja occidentalis 'American Pillar'
Degroot's Spire Arborvitae
Thuja occidentalis 'Degroot'
Eastern Arborvitae Western Arborvitae
Thuja occidentalis 'Columbia'
Keep exploring
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Grow Dwarf Golden Arborvitae with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
