shrubN. America Native

Westmont Arborvitae

Thuja occidentalis 'Westmont'

The Story

Plant Bio

Thuja occidentalis 'Westmont' is a compact, evergreen conifer with dense, scale-like foliage that forms a rounded, bushy habit, displaying rich green color year-round and producing small, inconspicuous cones.

This cultivar is valued for its slow growth and dense, low-maintenance form, making it ideal for low hedges and ornamental topiary in landscape design.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides year-round greenery, dense privacy screen, and structure in landscape design.
Practical UsesDrought tolerant once established, low-maintenance shrub suitable for various garden styles.
Ecological BenefitsProvides shelter and nesting sites for birds, supports local biodiversity.
SpeciesThuja occidentalisEastern Arborvitae Northern White Cedar

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

36 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Moderate, drought tolerant once mature

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

50+ years

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses

Bloom period

Late spring – Late fall

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

In flower about 7 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a sunny location with well-drained soil.
  2. Tuck seeds or young plants into prepared soil, water thoroughly.
  3. Maintain consistent moisture during first growing season.
  4. Mulch around base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
  5. Prune lightly to shape and remove dead branches annually.
  6. Apply slow-release fertilizer in early spring for best growth.

Pro Tip

Ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
  • Prune to maintain shape and remove dead wood
  • Mulch to retain soil moisture

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering ❌
  • Don't prune in late fall
  • Avoid planting in poorly drained areas

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Privacy hedge with dense, evergreen foliageFormal garden border with year-round structureSloped area for erosion control

Companion Plants

Boxwood Lavender Juniper HostaDaylilies

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Westmont Arborvitae questions

What zones can Westmont Arborvitae grow in?

Westmont Arborvitae is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Westmont Arborvitae deer resistant?

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

When does Westmont Arborvitae bloom?

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

Does Westmont Arborvitae need full sun?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Westmont 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.