The Story
Plant Bio
Thuja plicata 'Zebrina' is an evergreen coniferous shrub or small tree distinguished by its vibrant, striped foliage featuring yellow and green bands, forming dense, pyramidal growth with a soft texture.
This cultivar is notable for its striking variegated foliage that maintains color throughout the year, adding visual interest and contrast to garden landscapes.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Tree
Height
240 inches
Width
96 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
20+ years
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Spring – Late fall
In flower about 8 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Select well-drained soil with neutral pH.
- Plant in full sun or partial shade for best color.
- Water regularly during first two years to establish roots.
- Apply mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Prune lightly in early spring to shape and remove dead branches.
- Fertilize in early spring with balanced slow-release fertilizer.
Pro Tip
Ensure good drainage and avoid heavy clay soils for optimal growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Mulch annually to conserve moisture
- Prune to maintain shape in early spring
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don't prune in late fall or winter
- Avoid fertilizing late in the season
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
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
Zebrina Western Redcedar questions
What zones can Zebrina Western Redcedar grow in?
Zebrina Western Redcedar 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 Zebrina Western Redcedar deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Zebrina Western Redcedar, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Zebrina Western Redcedar bloom?
Zebrina Western Redcedar 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 Zebrina Western Redcedar need full sun?
Zebrina Western Redcedar does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Thuja to compare
Green Giant Arborvitae
Thuja occidentalis 'Green Giant'
Emerald Green Arborvitae
Thuja occidentalis 'Emerald Green'
Degroot's Spire Arborvitae
Thuja occidentalis 'Degroot'
Smaragd Emerald Arborvitae
Thuja occidentalis 'Smaragd Emerald'
American Pillar Arborvitae
Thuja occidentalis 'American Pillar'
Eastern Arborvitae Western Arborvitae
Thuja occidentalis 'Columbia'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Zebrina Western Redcedar 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.