Leprechaun Arborvitae

Light Needs

Partial Sun to Full Sun

(At Least 5 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

2 - 3 Feet

Mature Spread

2 - 3 Feet

Growing Zones

3 to 7

Leprechaun Arborvitae (Thuja standishii x plicata 'Leprechaun' PP33,840) adds eye-catching evergreen structure to any landscape with its upright and tidy form. This compact conifer reaches around 7 to 10 feet high and only about 4 to 6 feet wide, making it perfect for smaller spaces or as a narrow privacy screen. Its rich green foliage softens garden designs year-round, never turning dull or bronzy when temperatures drop. The naturally neat silhouette saves you time and energy, standing out as a dependable and charming accent in borders or near patios. 

Deer resistance is a highlight of this arborvitae, along with excellent cold tolerance down to zone 5. Thanks to its slower growth, it rarely demands pruning or shaping, becoming an easy-care solution for busy gardeners. It tolerates average to moist soils, including clay or slightly heavy soil, provided there’s good drainage. Hedge and screen plantings benefit from its dense branching, while containers along walkways or entrances gain a refined look with minimal upkeep. Whether used as a dramatic focal point or seamlessly blended in a mixed bed, Leprechaun Arborvitae proves itself as a versatile evergreen companion.

Leprechaun Arborvitae  Care

Grow Leprechaun Arborvitae in a spot receiving full sun for at least six hours daily, although partial shade is tolerated. Prepare planting holes wide enough for roots to spread, adding organic matter to improve drainage if needed. During the first year, water consistently when the top layer of soil begins to dry; once established, plants cope with moderate drought conditions. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied in spring can encourage steady growth, while a layer of mulch around the base helps lock in moisture and keep roots cool. If potting in containers, choose a well-draining mix and water more frequently than in-ground plantings.

This compact cultivar needs minimal pruning. If shaping is desired, do so in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Lightly remove any damaged or awkward branches, but avoid cutting into older wood. Plants in containers may need occasional thinning of interior growth to keep them looking fresh over time.

Leprechaun Arborvitae  Spacing

Provide around four feet of space between Leprechaun Arborvitae shrubs if you’re forming a close hedge. If you prefer a less dense screen, or want to interplant with other species, increase spacing to five or six feet. For container cultivation, choose a large pot (at least 18 inches in diameter) so roots have enough room to expand and the shrub stays stable in the wind.