Thuja plant

Plant Overview

• Botanical Name: Thuja occidentalis (most common)

• Common Names: Thuja, Arborvitae, White Cedar

• Type: Evergreen conifer shrub/tree

• Appearance: Dense, scale-like green foliage arranged in flat sprays; naturally grows in a conical or columnar shape.

 Care Guide

1. Sun Light

• Prefers full sun (at least 6 hours daily).

• Can tolerate partial shade but may become less dense.

2. Watering

• Needs regular watering, especially when young.

• Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy.

• Mature thujas are moderately drought-tolerant.

3. Soil

• Grows best in well-drained, fertile soil.

• Prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH.

• Avoid compacted or waterlogged soils.

4.  Fertilizer

• Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring.

• Mulch around the base to retain moisture and improve soil health.

5. Pruning

• Light pruning maintains shape and size.

• Avoid cutting into old wood (may not regrow).

• Best time: early spring or late summer.

6. Growth

• Can grow 3–15 meters tall depending on species and variety.

• Commonly used in hedges, topiary, and as ornamental garden trees.

 Flowers & Seeds

• Produces small, inconspicuous cones (not showy).

• Foliage is the main attraction.

Uses & Benefits

1. Ornamental Landscaping – Popular for hedges, privacy screens, and garden borders.

2. Windbreaks & Shelterbelts – Protects gardens and farms from strong winds.

3. Medicinal Use – In traditional medicine, thuja extracts were used for coughs, skin issues, and infections (⚠️ but raw plant parts are toxic if ingested).

4. Aromatic Wood – Some species provide fragrant, decay-resistant wood.

5. Air Purification – Evergreen foliage filters dust and pollutants outdoors.

Note:

• Toxic if ingested (contains thujone). Keep away from children and pets.