Emerald Petite Arborvitae

Light Needs

Full Sun

(At Least 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

5 - 6 Feet

Mature Spread

1 - 2 Feet

Growing Zones

3 to 7

Emerald Petite Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis 'Thusid4') adds stately presence with its bright green, feathery foliage that stays attractive year-round. This semi-dwarf conifer grows to about six feet tall and just two feet wide, giving you an elegant vertical accent without overpowering the landscape. Its neat, columnar form stands out near entryways, patios, or along paths, and the dense branches supply a lasting canopy of color in any season. Many gardeners choose Emerald Petite over standard arborvitae because it suits smaller spaces and calls for minimal upkeep. 

Despite its compact form, Emerald Petite Arborvitae continues to deliver where it counts. Originating from North American arborvitae stock, this cultivar exhibits solid cold hardiness, resisting harsh winters better than many evergreens of similar size. It handles a range of soil types and adapts well to rainier or moderately dry conditions once established. With a naturally layered branching habit, it’s ideal for containers, hedges, or as punctuation in perennial borders. Emerald Petite requires no special sprays or intense maintenance to remain healthy and is unlikely to succumb to common evergreen diseases.

Emerald Petite Arborvitae Care

Plant Emerald Petite Arborvitae in moderately moist, well-draining soil—amend heavy clays or sandy soils with organic compost if necessary. Position it in full sun for the best color, although partial shade is tolerable, especially on hot summer afternoons. Water thoroughly right after planting, then supplement with a weekly soak until the root system matures; eventually, only occasional watering is needed during dry spells. A balanced conifer or evergreen fertilizer applied in early spring keeps foliage vibrant. Mulching around the base helps hold moisture and discourages weeds, all while giving the root zone a consistent environment.

Emerald Petite Arborvitae Pruning

Some gardeners never prune Emerald Petite Arborvitae because its shape stays naturally compact. If you choose to shape it, prune lightly in late winter or very early spring, removing any crossing or damaged branches. Avoid radical cuts into thick, older wood that lacks green growth; such pruning can stall regrowth in those areas. Occasional removal of brown inner foliage helps maintain a neat look, especially after winter months.

Emerald Petite Arborvitae Spacing

For a short hedge or row, space Emerald Petite Arborvitae two to three feet apart, ensuring adequate room for airflow and uniform growth. If only using one or two as accent evergreens, set them slightly farther from other shrubs to prevent overcrowding. When grown in containers, select a pot at least 14 inches in diameter, leaving space for root expansion and stable vertical growth. This size also allows for easier watering and relocation as seasons change.

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1231021491-pc