Thuja standishii plicata 'Leprechaun'
shrub

Leprechaun Arborvitae

Thuja standishii plicata 'Leprechaun'

$84.95
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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

48 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Long-lived evergreen shrub

Native To

Hybrid Origin

Toxicity

Mildly toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

A hybrid of Japanese and Western Redcedar Arborvitae, this cross typically results in plants with good vigor, disease resistance, and attractive foliage. 'Leprechaun' is a dwarf, globose cultivar that forms a dense, rounded ball of bright green foliage. It maintains its compact shape naturally without the need for pruning.

Bloom Period:

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

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesIts perfect globe shape and bright green, feathery foliage provide year-round texture and form. It works beautifully as a formal accent, in pairs flanking a doorway, or repeated in a border for a sense of rhythm.
Practical UsesThis is an exceptionally low-maintenance shrub that requires no pruning to maintain its shape, making it ideal for busy gardeners. Its compact size is perfect for small gardens, foundation plantings, and containers.
Ecological BenefitsThe dense structure offers shelter for small birds. Being a deer-resistant hybrid, it's a reliable choice for creating sustainable garden designs in areas with deer pressure.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

In Stock$84.95
In Stock$89.95

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Choose a site with at least 4-6 hours of sun per day.
  2. Ensure the soil is moist but well-drained.
  3. Dig a hole twice the width of the container.
  4. Set the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the ground.
  5. Backfill with soil and water thoroughly to settle.
  6. Mulch around the base to keep roots cool and moist.

Pro Tip

This shrub's naturally round shape requires no pruning, making it a true 'plant it and forget it' option for formal-looking gardens.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Provide consistent moisture, especially during establishment.
  • Plant in a location with good air circulation.
  • Mulch to protect the shallow root system.
  • Check for bagworms in late spring.

Don't

  • Do not plant in soggy, poorly drained soil.
  • Avoid deep shade, which can lead to sparse growth.
  • Don't prune, as it will spoil its natural globe shape.
  • Avoid letting the root ball dry out completely.

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Mulch
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Perfect low-maintenance foundation shrubNeat, rounded accent in mixed bordersExcellent choice for large containers

Companion Plants

Heuchera 'Caramel' Hosta 'Frances Williams' Carex oshimensis 'Evergold' Geranium 'Rozanne' Dwarf Fothergilla

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Leprechaun Arborvitae questions

What zones can Leprechaun Arborvitae grow in?

Leprechaun Arborvitae is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Leprechaun Arborvitae deer resistant?

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

When does Leprechaun Arborvitae bloom?

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

Does Leprechaun Arborvitae need full sun?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Leprechaun 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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