The Green Giant Arborvitae (Thuja standishii x plicata) is a popular, fast-growing hybrid evergreen prized for privacy screens and windbreaks. It typically grows 3–5 feet per year, reaching 40–60 feet tall and 12–18 feet wide, with dense, rich green foliage that remains dark throughout winter. This deer-resistant, low-maintenance tree is hardy in zones 5-7 and thrives in full sun.
Key Details & Characteristics
Growth Rate: Rapid, often adding 3 or more feet of height annually under optimal conditions.
Size: Mature trees are 40–60 feet high and 12–20 feet wide, though they can be kept smaller with pruning.
Foliage & Color: Dense, soft, scale-like foliage arranged in sprays; maintains a deep green color, unlike some varieties that turn bronze in winter.
Appearance: Pyramidal to conical shape with a strong central leader.
Durability: Resistant to wind, ice, and heavy snow.
Pest/Disease Resistance: Highly resistant to deer and rarely affected by pests or diseases, making it a superior alternative to Leyland Cypress.
Planting & Maintenance
Spacing: For a dense privacy hedge, plant 5–6 feet apart.
Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade (4-6+ hours of direct sunlight).
Soil & Water: Adaptable to various soil types (sandy loam to heavy clay), but requires moist, well-drained soil.
Maintenance: Generally requires no pruning, though it handles shearing well.
Usage: Excellent for property boundary lines, tall privacy screens, and windbreak.