How To
If you're planning your landscape and wondering "how tall do arborvitaes grow", the answer might surprise you—these evergreens 🌲 can range from compact shrubs to towering giants depending on the variety. Whether you need a 3-foot hedge or a 60-foot privacy screen, arborvitae offer options for every space.
The key to controlling their height lies in choosing the right cultivar and understanding their growth habits. Some varieties grow just 12 inches per year, while others shoot up 3 feet annually, making proper spacing and pruning essential for long-term success.
In this guide, I’ll break down the mature heights of popular arborvitae types, share expert pruning tips to manage their size, and help you pick the perfect variety for your yard. Whether you’re designing a cozy garden or a sprawling backyard, getting this right ensures your arborvitae thrives without overpowering your space.
Ready to find the perfect fit? Let’s dive into the details so you can plant with confidence and enjoy your landscape for years to come.
Arborvitae height by variety: mature sizes and growth rates
Arborvitaes are one of the most popular evergreens for privacy screens and hedges, but their mature height can vary dramatically depending on the variety. Some stay compact at just 3 feet tall, while others can reach 60 feet—taller than a two-story house! Understanding these differences helps you choose the perfect arborvitae for your landscape.
If you're planning a privacy screen, you’ll likely want a taller variety like Green Giant, which grows 40-50 feet tall. For formal hedges or foundation plantings, dwarf varieties like Emerald Green (3-6 feet) or Golden Globe (3-4 feet) are ideal. Let’s break down the most common varieties and their growth habits.
| Variety | Mature Height | Growth Rate | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emerald Green | 3–6 ft | 12–18 in/year | Hedges, borders |
| Green Giant | 40–50 ft | 36 in/year | Privacy screens |
| American Arborvitae | 30–40 ft | 24 in/year | Specimen trees |
| Golden Globe | 3–4 ft | 6–12 in/year | Foundation plants |
| Leighton Green | 10–12 ft | 12–18 in/year | Screening hedges |
| Hollandia | 10–15 ft | 18–24 in/year | Formal hedges |
The growth rate of arborvitaes also varies by variety. Dwarf types like Emerald Green grow just 12–18 inches per year, making them perfect for small spaces. In contrast, fast-growing varieties like Green Giant can add 3 feet per year, reaching maturity in as little as 10 years. Always check spacing recommendations—planting too close can stunt growth or lead to disease.
For privacy screens, space tall varieties like Green Giant 6–8 feet apart to allow room for their mature width (up to 20 feet). Dwarf varieties need only 3–4 feet of spacing. Poor spacing is a common mistake that leads to overcrowding and poor air circulation, which invites pests and diseases like bagworms or aphids.
Another key factor is soil and sunlight. Arborvitaes thrive in full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. If planted in shady conditions, they may grow slower and develop leggy, sparse foliage. Amending clay soil with compost can also boost growth rates by improving drainage and nutrient availability.
If you’re unsure which variety to choose, consider your landscape goals. Need a quick privacy screen? Go for Green Giant. Want a neat, manicured hedge? Emerald Green is your best bet. For a specimen tree with year-round interest, the American Arborvitae is a stunning option.
Pro tip: Always check the USDA Hardiness Zone for your variety—most arborvitaes thrive in Zones 3–8, but some, like Thuja occidentalis 'Sunkist', prefer warmer climates (Zones 5–8). Planting the wrong variety for your zone can stunt growth or even kill your tree.
Now that you know the height ranges, the next step is learning how to control their growth with proper pruning. But first, let’s address a common question: How long does it take for an arborvitae to reach maturity? Most varieties take 5–15 years to reach their full height, depending on the species and growing conditions.
Ready to pick the perfect arborvitae for your space? Stay tuned for our next section on pruning techniques to keep your arborvitae at your desired height—without sacrificing its health or beauty. ✂️🌿
How to choose the right arborvitae for your space: height vs. landscape needs
Selecting the perfect arborvitae for your landscape starts with matching its mature height to your space and goals. A 3-foot dwarf variety won't create a privacy screen, while a 60-foot giant could overshadow your patio. Let's break down how to choose based on your property's size, sunlight, and intended use.
For small yards or foundation plantings, dwarf varieties like Emerald Green (3-5 feet) or Teddy Bear (3-4 feet) are ideal. These stay compact while providing year-round color. If you need a formal hedge along a fence, semi-dwarf options like American Arborvitae (10-15 feet) offer the perfect balance of height and manageability.
Tall Arborvitae (20-60 ft)
- ✔ Perfect for privacy screens or windbreaks
- ✔ Works in large yards or rural properties
- ✔ Varieties: Green Giant, Giant Sequoia
Dwarf Arborvitae (3-8 ft)
- ✔ Ideal for containers or small spaces
- ✔ Low-maintenance hedges or borders
- ✔ Varieties: Emerald Green, Teddy Bear
Planting tall varieties too close to structures can cause root conflicts and shade issues.
Dwarf varieties may outgrow containers if not pruned regularly.
Sunlight exposure plays a crucial role in determining which arborvitae will thrive in your space. Most varieties prefer full sun (6+ hours daily), but some like American Arborvitae tolerate partial shade. If your yard has shady areas, opt for shade-tolerant varieties to ensure healthy growth and proper height development.
For privacy screens, plant tall varieties like Green Giant (40-60 feet) or Giant Sequoia (30-40 feet) in a staggered row. Space them 3-5 feet apart to create an impenetrable barrier. If you're creating a formal hedge, choose columnar varieties like Emerald Green and space them 2-3 feet apart for a clean, uniform look.
One common mistake is selecting an arborvitae based solely on its mature height without considering its growth rate. Fast-growing varieties like Green Giant can add 3 feet per year, while slower growers like Emerald Green add only 6-12 inches annually. Plan accordingly—fast growers will fill out your landscape quickly, while slower growers provide steady, predictable growth over time.
Before planting, measure your space and visualize the arborvitae's mature size. Remember that pruning can only reduce height slightly—it won't drastically change a tree's natural growth pattern. When in doubt, choose a slightly smaller variety to avoid future pruning regrets.