Elegantissima Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Elegantissima’) is a popular evergreen, valued for its refined appearance and year-round appeal in various landscapes. Its adaptability and attractive form make it a favored choice for gardeners.
Distinctive Characteristics of Elegantissima Arborvitae
Elegantissima Arborvitae, scientifically known as Thuja occidentalis ‘Elegantissima’, is a dense, cylindrical evergreen. It typically matures to 10 to 18 feet tall and 3 to 10 feet wide, forming a columnar or narrowly pyramidal shape. Its rich green foliage has golden-yellow tips that intensify in winter, sometimes turning coppery-bronze. The soft, scale-like sprays create a feathery texture and year-round visual interest.
This arborvitae exhibits a moderate growth rate, reaching impressive heights while maintaining a compact width. It is well-suited for various landscape applications, including privacy screens, hedging, or as a striking standalone specimen. It is hardy in USDA Zones 2 through 9. Its adaptability to different climates and appealing form make it a versatile choice for many garden designs.
Optimal Planting and Site Selection
Successful establishment of Elegantissima Arborvitae begins with careful site selection and proper soil preparation. This evergreen thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions, with full sun exposure often enhancing the golden tipping of its foliage. While it tolerates a range of soil types, moist, well-drained soil is ideal for optimal growth. The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil pH, generally ranging from 4.5 to 8.
When preparing the planting site, dig a hole that is two to three times wider than the root ball, but only as deep as the root ball itself. This ensures ample space for root expansion without planting too deeply, which can suffocate the roots. Before placing the plant, gently loosen the roots around the edges of the root ball. Position the plant so the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the surrounding soil, then backfill with the excavated soil, avoiding excessive compaction. A thorough initial watering after planting helps settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Once established, Elegantissima Arborvitae requires consistent care to maintain its health and appearance. Regular watering is important, especially during dry periods and for newly planted specimens, to ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. Applying a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base helps conserve soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
Fertilization can support vigorous growth, particularly for young or established plants. For newly planted arborvitae, it is often recommended to avoid immediate fertilization, focusing instead on good soil quality. Established plants can benefit from a balanced fertilizer, such as a 20-20-20 or similar mix, applied in early spring before new growth emerges. Slow-release granular fertilizers with a higher nitrogen content (e.g., 10-4-4 or 11-5-5) are effective for providing a steady supply of nutrients throughout the growing season.
Pruning is generally minimal for Elegantissima Arborvitae, as it naturally maintains a tidy, pyramidal form. Light shearing in early spring can help improve shape and increase density. It is important to avoid over-pruning, especially removing too much new growth from the top, which can damage the tree. For winter care, the plant is quite cold-hardy, but its foliage may bronze or turn coppery in cold temperatures, which is a natural seasonal change. Protecting plants from heavy snow or ice loads can prevent branch breakage.
Addressing Common Challenges
Elegantissima Arborvitae can encounter specific challenges. Common insect pests like spider mites and bagworms cause foliage discoloration or defoliation. Regular inspection helps early detection, enabling timely intervention such as hand-picking bagworms or using horticultural controls for mites.
Environmental stressors also affect the plant. Winter burn, characterized by browning foliage, can occur due to harsh winter winds and sun when the ground is frozen. Drought stress from insufficient watering, particularly during dry spells, leads to wilting and browning, similar to overwatering symptoms. Adequate moisture, especially for young plants and during prolonged dry periods, prevents these issues. Proper soil drainage is essential to prevent root rot from waterlogged conditions.