
Leprechaun Arborvitae
Thuja standishii plicata 'Leprechaun'
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:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a site with at least 4-6 hours of sun per day.
- Ensure the soil is moist but well-drained.
- Dig a hole twice the width of the container.
- Set the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the ground.
- Backfill with soil and water thoroughly to settle.
- 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
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
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
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.
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