Thuja occidentalis ‘Golden Globe’ (American Arborvitae)

Thuja occidentalis ‘Golden Globe’ is a delightful, low-growing evergreen shrub, perfect for adding a touch of color to the landscape. Its adaptability, dwarf size, and bright foliage make it a popular choice for various garden styles and purposes.

Thuja occidentalis ‘Golden Globe’: An In-depth Look

Thuja occidentalis ‘Golden Globe’ is a widely admired cultivar of the Eastern Arborvitae, known for its vibrant color and manageable growth. It is notable for its dense, golden-yellow foliage that adds a burst of color to any garden. It has a naturally spherical, globular growth habit, making it a visually appealing addition to landscapes.

Native: Thuja occidentalis is native to North America. It is predominantly found in the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. This species naturally occurs in wet forests, swamps, and along lake shores, thriving in cool, moist, well-drained environments.

Plant Type and Habit: It is an evergreen conifer with a compact, rounded habit. Unlike the typical upright growth of Arborvitaes, ‘Golden Globe’ maintains a more globular form.

Size: ‘Golden Globe’ is a dwarf variety, growing to about 2-4 feet in height and equally in width (60-120 cm). Its size makes it an excellent choice for both small and large garden spaces.

Cones: Small upright seed cones, up to 1/2 inch long (1 cm), emerge as green and then mature to brown.

Foliage: The foliage is a bright golden-yellow, especially vivid in full sun. The leaves are scale-like, tightly packed, and maintain their color throughout the year.

Bark: The bark is reddish-brown, relatively smooth, and becomes more textured with age.

Uses: Ideal for foundation plantings, rock gardens, border fronts, and as a specimen in mixed borders. Its distinctive color and shape make it a popular choice for adding interest to various landscape designs.

Hardiness: Hardy in USDA zones 2-7, it can withstand cold winters and a range of environmental conditions.

Wildlife: American arborvitae provides nesting sites for songbirds, as well as cover, especially in the winter, for deer, which both feed on the branches and use them for shelter from the cold.

Toxicity: Generally considered non-toxic to humans and animals.

Deer and Rabbit: May suffer some damage from deer and rabbits, especially in areas where these animals are prevalent.

Invasiveness: This cultivar is not considered invasive and typically stays within its planted boundaries.

Benefits: Offers year-round color and interest with its unique foliage and growth habit. It is easy to maintain and suitable for a variety of uses in the landscape, especially in small gardens or as a colorful accent.

American Arborvitae Growing Tips

Light: Thrives in full sun but can also grow well in partial shade. Full sun exposure leads to denser foliage growth. Usually appreciates some light afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Protect from drying winds, especially when young.

Soil: Adaptable to a wide range of soils but prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Tolerates clay soils.

Water: Regular watering is important, especially for young plants and in dry conditions. Avoid extreme dry soil in the fall, which can cause the evergreen foliage to dry out in winter.

Fertilizer: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Over-fertilization can harm the plant, so follow the recommended rates.

Pruning: Little to no pruning is required. Prune for shaping or size control in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Avoid heavy pruning.

Mulch: Provide a generous root zone mulch.

Propagation: Propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer.

Pests and Diseases: Watch for bagworms, spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Leaf tips may suffer damage from leaf miners. Canker can sometimes pose a problem. Fungal diseases like root rot can occur in poorly drained soils. Good air circulation and proper planting depth help prevent these issues.