Thuja occidentalis Polar Gold® (American Arborvitae)

Thuja occidentalis Polar Gold® (American Arborvitae) is an elegant, evergreen shrub of narrow upright columnar habit with sprays of dense, finely textured foliage that emerges a cheerful glowing gold color. Slow-growing, it maintains its lovely color year-round and is resistant to windburn. Forming a majestic exclamation point in the landscape, it is cold weather resistant and represents a valuable, hardy alternative to cypress. Excellent for use in hedgerows and borders.

• Grows up to 12-15 ft. tall (360-450 cm) and 4-6 ft. wide (120-180 cm).
• A full sun lover, this plant is easily grown in average, moist, well-drained soils. Usually appreciates some light afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Bear in mind that foliage density loosens up in too much shade. Tolerates a wide range of soils. Thrives in humid weather with regular rainfalls. Intolerant of dry conditions. Protect from drying winds especially when young.
• Perfect as a specimen plant or for shrub borders, hedges, and screens, as foundation plants. 
• No serious insect or disease problems. May be affected by spider mites, bagworms, or coryneum canker.
• Low maintenance, American arborvitae tolerates shearing well for a more tailored column. Prune in early spring before the onset of new growth. Provide a generous root zone mulch
• Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings
• Native to Northeastern United States, Mid-Atlantic United States, Southeastern United States, North-Central United States, Central United States, Canada

Arborvitae is one of the most versatile, easy-to-grow evergreens suited to cold northern landscapes. Perfect as specimen plants, hedges, foundation plantings, and windbreaks, these attractive shrubs require hardly any maintenance while contributing beautifully to our landscapes.