Japanese arborvitae (Thuja standishii)

Japanese arborvitae

Features and Characteristics

Thuja standishii, commonly called Japanese arborvitae, is a small to medium evergreen conifer that is native to subalpine forests on the Japanese islands of Honshu and Shikoku. In cultivation, it typically grows to 20-30′ tall with a broad-pyramidal crown, slender trunk, fibrous reddish-brown bark and aromatic (lemony) scale-like leaves in flattened sprays. Leaves are bright green above and glaucous beneath. In their native environment, these arborvitaes may grow to as much as 100′ tall.

Genus name is the Greek name for a kind of juniper (Juniperus.)

Specific epithet honors English nurseryman John Standish (c. 1809-187- .

Care and Maintenance

Grow in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Prefers moist, neutral to alkaline, well-drained loams. Intolerant of dry conditions. Best in full sun, but generally appreciates some light afternoon shade in hot summer climates such as the St. Louis area. Avoid full shade where foliage density will substantially decrease.

Japanese arborvitae (Thuja standishii) Requirements

Hardiness zone	5 - 7
Sun light	Full sun to part shade
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low

Common Problems

No serious insect or disease problems.

Uses

Interesting and uncommon evergreen for the landscape. This tree is uncommon in commerce and may be difficult to locate.

Japanese arborvitae (Thuja standishii) Details

Common name	Japanese arborvitae
Botanical name	Thuja standishii
Plant type	Needled evergreen
Family	Cupressaceae
Hardiness zone	5 - 7
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low
Flower color	Non-flowering
Flowering period	Non-flowering
Height	20 - 30 ft.
Width	10 - 15 ft.