How to Grow American Pillar Arborvitae
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American Pillar Arborvitae
Thuja occidentalis 'American Pillar'
shrubAmerican Pillar is a narrow, columnar evergreen shrub with dense, feathery foliage that maintains a tight, pillar-like form without pruning. It features soft, scale-like green needles that provide year-round interest and excellent screening or accent value in landscapes. This cultivar is known for its compact growth habit and resistance to winter browning.
When should you plant American Pillar Arborvitae in your zone?
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Example American Pillar Arborvitae timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant American Pillar Arborvitae
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest American Pillar Arborvitae
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-8, with best performance in zones 4-7
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Get my American Pillar Arborvitae timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
First 1-2 months after plantingSmall transplant with initial growth and root establishment in the landscape
Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist. Mulch around base with 2-3 inches of organic material, keeping mulch away from stem. Avoid fertilizing first year.
Young Growth
Year 1-3Rapid vertical growth during first 2-3 years, plant fills out and develops characteristic columnar shape
Continue consistent watering. Apply balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) in early spring. Remove any competing central leaders. Maintain mulch layer.
Vegetative Expansion
Year 3-5Plant reaches 8-12 feet tall while maintaining narrow width, dense foliage develops throughout structure
Reduce watering frequency as root system matures. Light pruning can shape form if needed in early spring. Watch for spider mites in hot, dry conditions.
Mature Form
Year 5 and beyondFull-sized pillar (typically 15-20 feet tall, 3-4 feet wide) with dense, compact evergreen foliage providing excellent screening
Minimal pruning needed; only remove damaged or diseased branches. Water during drought. Apply light application of balanced fertilizer annually in spring if desired.
Winter Dormancy
November-March (zone dependent)Foliage may develop bronze or reddish tones in harsh winter conditions, though cultivar resists browning better than species
No fertilizing. Water occasionally during winter if snow/ice-free periods occur and soil is dry. Protect from heavy snow accumulation by tying branches loosely.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use miticide if severe. Improve air circulation and avoid hot, dry stress.
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Hand-pick bags in early spring or late fall. Apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) in late spring when caterpillars are young.
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Prune out affected branch tips. Maintain tree vigor through proper watering and care.
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Spray dormant oil in late winter/early spring. Use insecticidal soap during growing season on crawlers.
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Ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering. Plant in well-draining soil. Remove severely affected plants.
Uses
Screening and Privacy
HouseholdThe narrow, columnar form makes American Pillar an excellent choice for creating living privacy screens and windbreaks along property lines or to screen undesirable views. [source]
Ornamental Landscaping
HouseholdIts distinctive pillar-like silhouette provides strong vertical accent and architectural interest in formal gardens, foundation plantings, and contemporary landscape designs. [source]
Holiday Decorations and Greenery
CraftBranches and foliage are attractive for holiday wreaths, garlands, and indoor arrangements due to their pleasant aromatic quality and attractive feathery texture. [source]
Wildlife Shelter and Nesting
WildlifeDense evergreen foliage provides excellent shelter and nesting sites for birds and small wildlife throughout the year, offering protection during harsh winters. [source]
Erosion Control and Slope Stabilization
HouseholdThe extensive root system helps stabilize soil on slopes and prevents erosion while the columnar form allows planting in tight spaces without excessive spread. [source]
Harvest Tips
Arborvitae is not harvested for food or typical crop purposes. Foliage cuttings can be collected in fall or early winter for holiday decorations. Cut branches cleanly at branch junctions. Avoid harvesting more than 10% of plant material annually to maintain form.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The term 'arborvitae' comes from Latin meaning 'tree of life,' reflecting its historical use in Native American medicine and its symbolic association with longevity and resilience.
- 🌱 American Pillar was specifically bred to maintain its narrow columnar form without requiring constant pruning, making it an improved cultivar over the species type.
- 🌱 Arborvitae foliage contains aromatic oils that give it a distinctive pleasant scent when brushed or crushed; the plant has been used in traditional herbal medicine for centuries.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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