How to Grow Little Giant Arborvitae
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Little Giant Arborvitae
Thuja occidentalis 'Little Giant'
shrubLittle Giant Arborvitae is a compact, dwarf coniferous evergreen shrub known for its dense, columnar form and bright green foliage that often takes on bronze or copper tones in winter. It reaches only 12-15 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide at maturity, making it ideal for smaller landscapes and foundation plantings. This cultivar is a hardy, low-maintenance addition to any garden that provides year-round structure and visual interest.
When should you plant Little Giant Arborvitae in your zone?
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Example Little Giant Arborvitae timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Little Giant 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 Little Giant 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 Little Giant Arborvitae timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
6-12 monthsYoung plant with developing root system; compact form begins to emerge
Water consistently and mulch around base. Avoid transplanting stress. Stake in windy locations if needed.
Juvenile Growth
1-2 yearsFoliage becomes denser and fuller; plant reaches 3-5 feet tall
Continue regular watering. Light pruning can shape the plant if desired. Monitor for spider mites in dry conditions.
Vegetative Maturation
1-2 yearsPlant reaches 8-12 feet tall with full columnar form and bright green color
Reduce watering frequency as root system establishes. Minimal pruning needed. Apply balanced fertilizer in spring if desired.
Full Maturity
Long-term maintenancePlant reaches 12-15 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide with dense foliage; winter color develops
Maintain with occasional light pruning. Winter color develops in late fall. Ensure good air circulation to prevent disease.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge mites; use horticultural oil or miticide if severe. Ensure adequate humidity.
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Hand-pick bags from branches. Apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) in late spring or use insecticidal soap.
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Prune out affected foliage. Apply preventive insecticide in spring if history of infestation.
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and
Use horticultural oil spray in dormant season. Neem oil or insecticidal soap in growing season.
Uses
Privacy screening and windbreak
HouseholdLittle Giant's narrow, columnar form makes it excellent for creating natural privacy screens, windbreaks, and living fences. Multiple plants spaced appropriately create an effective barrier while maintaining a refined appearance. [source]
Foundation planting and landscape structure
HouseholdThe compact size and vertical form provide year-round structure to foundation plantings, entryways, and corner accents. Its evergreen foliage ensures visual interest throughout all seasons. [source]
Winter ornamental interest
HouseholdThe bronze or copper-tinged foliage that develops in winter provides striking color contrast against snow and dormant plants. This adds visual interest during the landscape's dormant season. [source]
Wildlife shelter and nesting habitat
WildlifeDense evergreen foliage provides shelter, protection, and nesting sites for birds and small mammals throughout the year, making it valuable for wildlife gardens. [source]
Evergreen arrangements
CraftBranches can be used in winter wreaths, garlands, and holiday floral arrangements, providing fresh, fragrant evergreen material for seasonal decorating. [source]
Harvest Tips
Arborvitae is not harvested for food or traditional cutting. However, small branches can be harvested for evergreen arrangements in winter. Cut branches from well-established plants without removing more than 10% of foliage annually.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Little Giant Arborvitae foliage releases a pleasant, distinct aromatic scent when brushed or crushed, a characteristic of Thuja species sometimes described as fruity or cedar-like.
- 🌱 The name 'arborvitae' comes from Latin meaning 'tree of life,' a name given by European explorers who learned from Native Americans that these trees had medicinal properties.
- 🌱 This cultivar is more compact and cold-hardy than many other ornamental conifers, making it particularly valuable for northern gardens where space is limited.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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