Globe Arborvitae are popular evergreen shrubs known for their compact, spherical shapes. These low-maintenance plants offer year-round visual interest, making them a favored choice for borders, low hedges, or accent plants in garden beds. Their tidy appearance and consistent foliage color enhance outdoor spaces.
Understanding Globe Arborvitae
Globe Arborvitae are cultivars of Thuja occidentalis (American Arborvitae or Eastern White Cedar), native to eastern and central Canada and parts of the northeastern United States. Unlike taller, pyramidal arborvitae, Globe Arborvitae are bred for their rounded growth. Their dense, scale-like foliage forms flattened sprays, creating a soft, fine-textured appearance. Slow-growing, they maintain their compact, rounded form with minimal intervention. This naturally spherical shape is highly desirable in landscape design, providing a formal yet natural aesthetic without constant pruning.
Popular Globe Arborvitae Varieties
Several Globe Arborvitae varieties offer distinct characteristics for diverse garden applications. These varieties generally maintain their characteristic rounded form with minimal pruning.
‘Hetz Midget’ is a slow-growing, compact cultivar, typically maturing to 3-4 feet tall and slightly wider. Its rich forest green foliage may develop subtle bronze-gold hues in winter, making it ideal for small spaces, borders, or rock gardens.
‘Danica’ is a dwarf, globe-shaped evergreen, reaching about 24 inches tall and wide. It features bright emerald green foliage that transitions to blue-green in winter. Its slow growth and small stature suit it for garden detail, rock gardens, or containers.
‘Little Giant’ is known for its dense, dark-green foliage that consistently maintains its vibrant color year-round without significant winter bronzing. This slow-growing variety typically reaches 4-5 feet tall and 3-5 feet wide, well-suited for rock gardens, foundation plantings, and container gardening.
‘Woodwardii’ is a compact, globular-spreading form, often growing to 4-5 feet tall with a 5-8 foot spread in its first 10 years. It is prized for its rich green evergreen foliage that remains consistent throughout the winter, making it suitable for mass plantings, hedges, or general garden use.
‘Rheingold’ offers a unique golden hue, with bright yellow leaves in summer that turn a rich copper in fall and winter. This dwarf shrub typically reaches 3-4 feet in height and width. Its distinct color makes it a prominent feature, especially in winter gardens, combining well with other conifers and shrubs.
Selecting the Right Variety
Selecting a Globe Arborvitae variety requires considering several factors to ensure it thrives.
Mature Size: Varieties like ‘Danica’ are ideal for confined spaces or containers, while ‘Woodwardii’ fits wider areas. Understanding ultimate dimensions prevents overcrowding and reduces extensive pruning.
Foliage Color: Some varieties like ‘Rheingold’ offer vibrant seasonal changes, while others like ‘Little Giant’ maintain consistent deep green.
Sunlight: Most prefer full sun to partial shade (at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal density), though afternoon shade can prevent foliage burn in hotter climates.
Hardiness Zone: Select a variety suitable for your USDA Hardiness Zone to ensure winter hardiness.
Intended Use: Consider the intended use (low hedge, specimen, or foundation planting), as varieties differ in suitability for specific roles.
Essential Care for Globe Arborvitae
Proper planting is crucial for establishment. Dig a hole twice the root ball’s width and slightly less deep, ensuring the top sits just above the soil line. Backfill, tamp gently, and water thoroughly.
Water consistently, especially during the first growing season and dry periods. Arborvitae need moisture but not soggy conditions, which cause root rot. Well-draining soil is preferred; organic matter improves structure.
Fertilization needs are minimal. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be applied in early spring to support new growth. Avoid late summer fertilization, as it stimulates new growth that may not harden off before winter.
Light pruning is typically all that’s needed to maintain their globe shape. Trim to remove dead or damaged branches. Avoid heavy pruning into old wood, as arborvitae do not readily regrow from such areas. While hardy, they can be susceptible to spider mites, bagworms, and winter burn in exposed sites. Consistent care mitigates these issues.