Thujopsis dolabrata 'Hondai'
shrub

Hondai Hiba Arborvitae

Thujopsis dolabrata 'Hondai'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

72 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Decades

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Thujopsis dolabrata 'Hondai' is an evergreen coniferous shrub or small tree with dense, dark green, scale-like foliage that forms a pyramidal or rounded shape. It produces upright, cone-like clusters of small, brownish flowers. This cultivar is distinguished by its compact growth habit and lush foliage, making it an excellent choice for small gardens and as a decorative hedge.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides year-round greenery and structure in shaded areas.
Practical UsesMaintains privacy as a dense hedge.
Ecological BenefitsSupports local bird populations with dense cover.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck young plants into well-drained soil in early spring.
  2. Water regularly during the first year to establish roots.
  3. Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  4. Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape.
  5. Transplant in early spring if needed, allowing 6 weeks for establishment.
  6. Fertilize with balanced slow-release in spring.

Pro Tip

Ensure well-drained, acidic soil for best growth and color retention.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water during dry spells 🌱
  • Prune lightly after new growth
  • Mulch annually to conserve moisture

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering ❌
  • Don’t prune in late summer
  • Keep away from heavy clay soils

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Evergreen hedge with dense, dark foliageShade garden border

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Japanese maples Azaleas

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hondai Hiba Arborvitae questions

What zones can Hondai Hiba Arborvitae grow in?

Hondai 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 Hondai Hiba Arborvitae deer resistant?

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

When does Hondai Hiba Arborvitae bloom?

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

Does Hondai Hiba Arborvitae need full sun?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Hondai Hiba 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.

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