Thuja occidentalis Perk Vlaanderen

Thuja occidentalis ‘Perk Vlaanderen’ is a distinctive selection of eastern arborvitae valued for its narrow, upright habit and dense, finely textured foliage. The plant develops a refined columnar form, making it useful where a strong vertical evergreen accent is needed without the width of a typical rounded arborvitae.

The foliage consists of tightly arranged, flattened sprays of rich green. Fresh growth can appear somewhat lighter, creating subtle variation throughout the plant. The dense branching provides year-round structure and screening while maintaining a more restrained appearance than many of the faster-growing arborvitae cultivars.

‘Perk Vlaanderen’ performs best in full sun to partial shade and prefers evenly moist, well-drained soil. It is adaptable to a range of soil conditions once established, although consistent moisture is especially important during periods of drought. As a selection of Thuja occidentalis, it is well suited to cold climates and maintains its evergreen foliage through winter.

Its narrow habit makes ‘Perk Vlaanderen’ useful as a specimen, vertical accent, evergreen screen, hedge, or formal planting. It can also be incorporated into mixed conifer collections where its upright form provides contrast with broader or spreading evergreens.

Mature Size: Approximately 8–12′ tall × 3–5′ wide
Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
USDA Zones: 3–7
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Moist, well-drained; adaptable
Water: Average; prefers consistent moisture
Foliage: Dense, rich green, finely textured
Habit: Narrow, upright, columnar
Uses: Specimen, vertical accent, hedge, screening, formal planting, and mixed conifer garden