tree

Golden Rocket Oriental Arborvitae

Thuja orientalis 'Golden Rocket'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

180 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate once established

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

50+ years

Native To

Eastern Asia

Toxicity

Foliage can be toxic if ingested in large quantities.

The Story

Plant Bio

Platycladus orientalis 'Golden Rocket', commonly known as Golden Rocket Oriental Arborvitae, is a compact, upright evergreen conifer with dense, scale-like foliage that displays a striking golden-yellow hue, especially in full sun, forming a narrow, columnar shape. This cultivar is prized for its vibrant golden color and its ability to maintain its bright foliage throughout the year, making it an excellent choice for striking vertical accents in gardens.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

The vibrant golden foliage provides year-round color and interest in the landscape.

Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for busy gardeners.

Provides shelter and food for local birds and beneficial insects.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-drained soil in spring.
Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist for 2 weeks.
Mist cuttings regularly to encourage root growth.
Transplant seedlings when they are 6 inches tall, after 6 weeks.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Prune lightly in early spring to maintain shape.

Pro Tip

Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
Prune to shape in early spring
Mulch annually to conserve moisture

Don't

Avoid overwatering ❌
Don’t prune in late fall
Keep away from heavy clay areas

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Golden-hued hedgeSunny border accent

Companion Plants

Juniper Boxwood Lavender Sedum Hosta

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Golden Rocket Oriental Arborvitae questions

What zones can Golden Rocket Oriental Arborvitae grow in?

Golden Rocket Oriental Arborvitae is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Golden Rocket Oriental Arborvitae deer resistant?

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

When does Golden Rocket Oriental Arborvitae bloom?

Golden Rocket Oriental 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 Golden Rocket Oriental Arborvitae need full sun?

Golden Rocket Oriental Arborvitae does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Golden Rocket Oriental Arborvitae drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Golden Rocket Oriental Arborvitae handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.