
Light Needs

Mature Height

Mature Spread

Growing Zones
- Partial Sun to Full Sun (At Least 5 Hours of Direct Sunlight)
- Mature Height 15 - 20 Feet
- Mature Spread 12 - 18 Inches
- Growing Zones 3 - 8
- Use As A Thriller In Containers
Sting™ Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘SMNTOO’) has a remarkably slim, upright form that can soar up to 20 feet tall yet stays just 12–18 inches wide. Its dense, green needles provide fresh color in every season, making it a versatile centerpiece, hedge, or narrow screen. This columnar conifer holds its elegant shape naturally and rarely needs pruning. Being a North American native, it also tolerates colder zones (as low as USDA 3) and blends beautifully into a range of landscapes.
A living Sting™ Arborvitae tree over the holidays introduces natural aroma and texture in place of disposable plastic. Unlike artificial décor, it can head outdoors once winter fades, offering a permanent green companion in your yard. This approach cuts back on waste while helping maintain a warmer, cozier ambience indoors. Few holiday decorations can match that year-round appeal.
Holiday Sting™ Arborvitae Care
During winter indoors, keep the soil lightly moist—water when the top inch feels dry but avoid letting the pot become soggy. Place it where it receives bright light, and rotate the container every couple of weeks. If the surrounding air becomes extremely dry, a gentle misting can help preserve needle quality.
After the cold weather breaks, transition your arborvitae outside gradually over a one to two-week period, letting it acclimate to changing conditions. Then dig a hole at least twice the root ball’s width in well-drained soil and full to partial sun, ideally providing 4 to 6 hours of daily light. Backfill with loosened soil, water thoroughly, and lay down a thin mulch layer—making sure to leave a small gap around the trunk for airflow. Use this Arborvitae as a space-saving vertical accent, hedge, or privacy screen.
Holiday Sting Arborvitae Information
USDA Hardiness Zones: 3 - 8 |
Plant Type: Bushes |
Light Exposure: Partial Sun to Full Sun (At Least 5 Hours of Direct Sunlight) |
Mature Height: 15 - 20 Feet |
Mature Spread: 12 - 18 Inches |
Spacing: 12 - 18 Inches |
Habit: Upright |
Flower Color(s): None |
Flower Description: |
Bloom Period: Grown For Foliage |
Foliage Type: Evergreen |
Foliage Color(s): Green |
Foliage Description: |
Seasonal Interest: Fall Interest, Winter Interest |
Watering: Average |
Resists: N/A |
Tolerates: N/A |
Attracts: N/A |
Container Role: Thriller |
Uses: Containers, Specimen or Focal Point, Wildlife Gardens |
Features: Deadheading Not Necessary, Low Maintenance, Native to North America |
Brand: Proven Winners |
Common Name: Sting™ Arborvitae |
Other Name(s): |
Scientific Name: Thuja occidentalis 'SMNTOO' USPPAF, Can PBRAF |
Please Note: The pictures below are to give a general representation of the different container sizes. The actual size/ages of plants are estimates and will vary based on type of plant, time of year, last pruning & many other factors.

Also Known As:
Quart
Plant Age:
~ 6 months - 1 year
Plant Size:
~ 4"-8"
Pot Size:
~ 4.75"H x 4.5"W
Volume:
1.50 quarts

Also Known As:
2.5 Quart Pot
Plant Age:
~ 1 - 2 years old
Plant Size:
~ 8"-12"
Pot Size:
~ 6.5"H x 6.5"W
Volume:
2.20-2.30 quarts

Also Known As:
#1 Container
1 Gallon
Plant Age:
~ 1 - 2 years old
Plant Size:
~ 10"-14"
Pot Size:
~ 7"H x 7.75"W
Volume:
2.26-3.73 quarts

Also Known As:
#2 Container
2 Gallon
Plant Age:
~ 1.5 - 3 years old
Plant Size:
~ 12"-18"
Pot Size:
~ 9.5"H x 9.5"W
Volume:
1.19-1.76 gallons

Also Known As:
#3 Container
3 Gallon
Plant Age:
~ 2 - 4 years old
Plant Size:
~ 12"-30"
Pot Size:
~9.5"H x 11"W
Volume:
2.32-2.76 gallons

Also Known As:
#5 Container
5 Gallon
Plant Age:
~3-4 years old
Plant Size:
~ 20" - 60"
Pot Size:
~11" H x 10 1/2” W
Volume:
3.5 - 4 gallons

We stand behind our plants with industry-leading guarantees to give you peace of mind.
We want your plants to arrive in great condition! If you notice any issues upon delivery, contact us within 3 days.
Starting January 1, 2025 all bushes, perennials & trees purchased come with an extended 1-year warranty for added confidence. If your plant dies due to a health issue within a year, we’ll make it right.
Plants that are currently in stock typically ship within 2-7 business days after your order is placed.
Plant Addicts ships to the lower 48 states within the U.S. Unfortunately, we do not currently ship to Alaska, Hawaii, or internationally.
This plant cannot be shipped to the following states: Idaho, AK, HI. These restrictions apply only to this specific plant due to agricultural regulations or other limitations. Other plants may still be available for shipping to these states.
If you have any questions about shipping restrictions, feel free to reach out to our team!