Thuja occidentalis Emerald (Smaragd)

Thuja occidentalis ‘Emerald’, commonly sold as ‘Smaragd’, is one of the most widely planted arborvitaes in the world, prized for its consistent color and elegant, narrow form. Originating in Europe, this cultivar was selected for holding rich emerald-green foliage year-round without significant winter bronzing. It forms a dense, upright pyramid that requires little pruning to maintain its shape. Best grown in full sun to partial shade with evenly moist, well-drained soil, it grows at a moderate rate. Hardy in USDA Zones 3–7, it typically reaches 12–15 feet tall and is a cornerstone plant for hedges, screens, and formal landscapes.