Cedar 'Emerald'

Willowbrook Nurseries Inc./Sheridan Nurseries Ltd.

$79.99
Title

A regal and reliable classic for the modern landscape. 'Emerald' is a shimmering, narrow pyramid of dense, fern-like foliage that glows with a vibrant, jewel-toned green all year long. Its upright sprays of scale-like leaves create a refined, velvety texture that stays crisp and lush even through the winter months, offering a sophisticated vertical silhouette that never loses its luster.

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Size Guide

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Plant Details

Mature Size:

12–15' H x 3–4' W

Zone:

3-8

Watering:

Medium to High

Foliage Type:

Evergreen

Growth Rate:

Slow - Moderate

Light:

Full Sun/Part Sun

Plant Profile

Common Names:

Emerald Green Arborvitae, Smaragd, Emerald Cedar, Eastern White Cedar

Scientific Name:

Thuja occidentalis 'Emerald' (syn. 'Smaragd')

Type:

Ornamental Evergreen Shrub / Privacy Tree

Growth Details:

  • Mature Size: 12–15 feet tall and 3–4 feet wide.
  • Growth Habit / Form: Narrow, compact, upright pyramidal habit.
  • Growth Rate: Slow to moderate (approx. 8–12 inches per year).
  • Longevity: Approximately 30 years under ideal conditions.

Environmental Needs:

  • Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade.
  • Soil Preferences: Prefers moist, neutral to alkaline, well-drained loams.
  • Soil Tolerance: Adaptable to clay and urban pollution, but intolerant of dry or drought conditions.
  • Watering: Regular deep watering during the first growing season; once established, ensure it receives at least 0.5 to 1 inch of water weekly.

Special Features:

  • Disease Resistances: Generally pest-resistant but watch for bagworms or spider mites in dry conditions.
  • Native Species: Derived from the North American native Thuja occidentalis.
  • Fast Growing: No (considered slow-growing compared to 'Green Giant').
  • Attracts: Provides nesting sites and winter cover for songbirds.
Care Guide

Ornamental & Landscape Value

Seasonal Interest:

  • Bloom: Non-flowering conifer; prized for year-round foliage.
  • Fall/Winter Colour: Holds its bright emerald-green colour well; may take on a very slight bronze tint in extreme cold.
  • Evergreen Interest: Provides a dense, vibrant green structure through all four seasons.

Garden Value:

The ultimate choice for formal privacy screens, tall hedges, and vertical accents. Its narrow footprint makes it perfect for urban gardens and framing entryways or foundations.

Wildlife & Human Value:

  • Wildlife: Highly aromatic foliage provides food and cover for birds.
  • Human: Provides a "living wall" for privacy, noise reduction, and wind protection.

Planting & Care Guide

Planting Considerations:

  • Best Time To Plant: Spring or early fall.
  • Spacing: 18–24 inches apart for a dense hedge; 3–4 feet for individual specimens.
  • Location Tips: Shelter from strong, drying winds and avoid heavy snow-load areas where stems might break.

Care:

  • Light Requirements: Thrives in full sun but appreciates afternoon shade in very hot climates.
  • Moisture Requirements: Requires consistent moisture; prefers deep, fertile, loamy soil.
  • Maintenance, Fertilization: Low maintenance; only prune new growth if shaping is desired. Fertilize in early spring before new growth begins.

Tolerances:

Clay soil, black walnut, urban pollution, and heat/humidity.

Tips For Success:

Mulch heavily around the root zone to retain moisture and keep roots cool. Wrap newly planted trees in burlap for the first few winters in exposed or extremely cold areas.

Fruit Profile