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Virginian Arborvitae

Thuja plicata standishii 'Virginian'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

180 inches

Width

60 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Long-lived evergreen tree

Native To

Hybrid Origin

Toxicity

Mildly toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

This hybrid arborvitae combines the vigor of Western Redcedar (T. plicata) and the hardiness of Japanese Arborvitae (T. standishii). It typically exhibits a strong pyramidal form and lush, dense foliage. 'Virginian' is a fast-growing cultivar selected for its tight, narrow, columnar habit and excellent deer resistance. It maintains its rich green color throughout the winter without bronzing.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Its narrow, upright form provides a strong vertical element in the landscape, perfect for formal designs, allees, or as a stately specimen. The dense, deep green foliage offers a lush backdrop for other plants.

This cultivar is one of the best choices for creating a fast-growing, dense privacy screen or hedge that requires minimal shearing. Its narrow footprint makes it ideal for smaller yards and tight spaces.

The dense evergreen branches provide excellent year-round cover and nesting sites for birds. Its superior deer resistance makes it a sustainable choice for landscapes in areas with high deer pressure.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a location with at least 6 hours of sun and well-drained soil.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper.
Place the tree in the hole, ensuring the root flare is at or above soil level.
Backfill with native soil, tamping down to remove air pockets.
Water deeply and consistently, especially during the first two years.
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base, avoiding the trunk.

Pro Tip

For a dense privacy screen, space plants 3-4 feet apart. Their narrow habit allows for tight spacing without overcrowding.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly, especially in hot, dry weather and before winter freeze.
Provide good air circulation.
Mulch to retain soil moisture.
Monitor for bagworms in late spring.

Don't

Do not plant too deep; keep the root flare visible.
Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, especially when young.
Don't prune back into old wood with no foliage.
Avoid planting in sites with poor drainage.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Excellent fast-growing privacy screenFormal vertical accent in narrow spacesLow-maintenance evergreen hedge

Companion Plants

Hydrangea paniculata Buxus 'Green Velvet' Hosta 'Sum and Substance' Pennisetum alopecuroides Spiraea japonica

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Virginian Arborvitae questions

What zones can Virginian Arborvitae grow in?

Virginian 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 Virginian Arborvitae deer resistant?

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

When does Virginian Arborvitae bloom?

Virginian 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 Virginian Arborvitae need full sun?

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