Size
If you're planning to add arborvitae 🌲 to your landscape, you might be wondering just how tall these evergreen stars can grow—and whether they'll fit your space perfectly. The answer isn't one-size-fits-all, because arborvitae come in a stunning range of sizes, from compact shrubs to towering trees that can reach 60 feet or more.
For those dreaming of a fast-growing privacy screen, some varieties like the Green Giant can shoot up 3 feet per year, while others stay manageable at just 3-8 feet tall. The key is choosing the right cultivar for your goals—whether you want a low hedge, a mid-height screen, or a bold statement tree.
But here's the thing: proper spacing and pruning make all the difference. Planting too close together can stunt growth, while strategic trimming helps maintain your desired height. We'll break down the fastest-growing options and share expert tips to keep your arborvitae at the perfect size—no matter what your vision is.
Ready to transform your yard with these versatile evergreens? Let's explore how to pick the perfect arborvitae for your space and keep it thriving for years to come.
Arborvitae height by variety: from dwarf to Giant trees
If you're planning your dream garden or privacy screen, knowing how tall arborvitae grow is your first step. These evergreens come in stunning varieties, each with its own mature height range and growth rate. Whether you need a compact hedge or a towering privacy screen, there's an arborvitae cultivar perfect for your space.
The Thuja genus (arborvitae's scientific name) includes species that can range from dwarf varieties under 3 feet to giant trees reaching 60 feet. Your choice depends on your yard size, sunlight, and long-term vision. Let's explore the height spectrum so you can pick the perfect fit.
🌱 Pro Tip: Always check the mature height label when buying arborvitae, as even "dwarf" varieties can outgrow their space if not pruned properly.
| Variety | Mature Height | Growth Rate | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dwarf Arborvitae ('Teddy Bear') | 3-4 ft | 6-12 in/year | Container gardens, foundation plantings |
| Emerald Green ('Emerald') | 12-15 ft | 12-18 in/year | Hedges, privacy screens |
| Green Giant ('Green Giant') | 30-40 ft | 36 in/year | Tall privacy screens, windbreaks |
| American Arborvitae ('Thuja occidentalis') | 40-60 ft | 12-24 in/year | Specimen trees, large properties |
| Smaragd ('Smaragd') | 15-20 ft | 10-15 in/year | Narrow hedges, urban landscapes |
For small spaces, dwarf varieties like 'Teddy Bear' or 'Little Giant' stay under 5 feet tall, making them ideal for container gardening or foundation plantings. These grow slowly—about 6-12 inches per year—so they're low-maintenance once established.
If you need a quick privacy screen, fast growers like Green Giant or Emerald Green are game-changers. Green Giant can grow 3 feet per year, reaching 30-40 feet in just a decade. That's faster than most homeowners can build a fence!
For large properties, the American Arborvitae ('Thuja occidentalis') is a stunning specimen tree that can tower 40-60 feet tall. These giants need space but provide year-round beauty and wildlife habitat.
When choosing, consider your sunlight exposure. Most arborvitae thrive in partial sun to full sun, but some varieties like 'Smaragd' tolerate urban shade better than others. Always check the USDA hardiness zone (typically 3-8) for your region.
Remember: Spacing matters. Plant tall varieties at least 6-10 feet apart to prevent overcrowding, which can lead to disease. For hedges, space Emerald Green plants 3-4 feet apart for a dense, uniform look.
🌿 Key Takeaway: Measure your space twice before planting—arborvitae height is permanent, and pruning can't always reverse overgrowth.
Fastest-growing arborvitae varieties for quick privacy screens
If you're eager to create a quick privacy screen without waiting decades, some arborvitae varieties grow at lightning speed. The Green Giant leads the pack with a 3-foot annual growth rate, while others like Emerald Green and American Arborvitae also deliver impressive height gains. These fast growers can transform your yard in just a few years, making them ideal for homeowners who want instant results.
For a 6-foot tall screen, fast-growing varieties can achieve this in just 2-3 years with proper care. If you're aiming for 10 feet, most will reach that height in 4-5 years. The key is selecting the right cultivar and providing optimal growing conditions—like well-draining soil and full sun exposure—to maximize their growth potential.
Here's how the fastest-growing arborvitae stack up against common height goals:
For ultra-fast results, the Green Giant is the undisputed champion. In just 5 years, it can reach 15 feet—taller than most fences! This makes it perfect for windbreaks or large privacy screens along property lines. Just be prepared for its mature size of 30-40 feet, which requires plenty of space.
If you're working with limited space but still want quick growth, Emerald Green is a fantastic middle-ground option. It grows 1.5 feet per year and reaches 12-15 feet at maturity, making it ideal for narrow hedges or urban landscapes. Its dense foliage provides excellent privacy without overwhelming smaller yards.
Proper planting depth and soil preparation can boost growth rates by up to 20%. Always plant arborvitae at the same depth they were in their nursery pot, and amend the soil with compost to ensure optimal nutrient uptake. Mulching around the base also helps retain moisture and encourages faster growth.
🌿 Remember: Even fast growers need consistent watering during their first year. Deep watering 2-3 times per week helps establish strong root systems for rapid upward growth.