How to Grow Pencil Point Arborvitae
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Pencil Point Arborvitae
Thuja occidentalis 'Degroot's Spire'
treePencil Point Arborvitae is an extremely narrow, columnar evergreen conifer prized for its distinctive pencil-like silhouette and fine-textured, bright green foliage. It grows as a dense, upright accent tree that maintains its narrow form without pruning, making it ideal for small spaces, screening, and formal landscapes.
When should you plant Pencil Point Arborvitae in your zone?
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Example Pencil Point Arborvitae timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Pencil Point 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 Pencil Point 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 2-8, with best performance in zones 3-7
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Get my Pencil Point Arborvitae timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
First 1-2 growing seasonsRecently planted young tree with developing root system; foliage is bright green but plant appears somewhat sparse
Water regularly (2-3 times weekly) for first growing season. Avoid fertilizing first year. Mulch base well. Protect from wind if in exposed location.
Juvenile Growth
Years 2-4Tree grows steadily, becoming denser and fuller; columnar form becomes more defined and pronounced
Water during dry periods. Prune only to remove dead or damaged branches; this cultivar requires minimal pruning. Monitor for spider mites in dry conditions.
Mature Development
Years 5-20Tree reaches mature pencil-like silhouette, typically 15-20 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide; dense, fine-textured, bright green foliage throughout
Maintain consistent watering during drought. Apply balanced slow-release evergreen fertilizer in spring. Remove any branches that break from snow/ice load.
Established Specimen
Year 20+ (long-lived, 30-50+ years typical)Mature tree maintains narrow columnar form indefinitely; foliage may darken slightly in winter in northern zones
Water established trees during extended drought (less frequent, deeper watering). Light spring pruning only if needed to maintain form. Minimal fertilizing needed.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap or neem oil for severe infestations; maintain adequate soil moisture as mites thrive in drought stress
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Hand-pick bags in fall/winter; spray with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) in late spring when larvae are small
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Prune affected foliage; use preventive insecticide sprays in May-June before damage occurs
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Install physical barriers (fencing); use deer repellent sprays; protect young trees if in high-deer areas
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Prune infected branches well below visible damage; sterilize pruning tools between cuts; ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering
Uses
Living Privacy Screen & Windbreak
HouseholdThe extremely narrow, dense form of Pencil Point Arborvitae makes it ideal for creating tall, space-efficient privacy screens and wind barriers with minimal footprint. Its columnar shape allows for living fences in tight spaces while maintaining aesthetic appeal. [source]
Formal Accent & Foundation Planting
HouseholdThis cultivar excels as a focal point specimen tree or used in pairs to frame entryways and architectural features. Its consistent, narrow silhouette adds vertical structure and formal elegance to residential and commercial landscapes. [source]
Holiday Greenery & Seasonal Decoration
CraftFresh-cut branches and foliage are valued in holiday floral arrangements, wreaths, and garlands, providing fine texture and bright green color to winter decorations. [source]
Native Shelter for Birds & Wildlife
WildlifeDense evergreen foliage provides year-round shelter, nesting sites, and protection from predators for songbirds and small wildlife, while offering food in the form of small cone-like fruits. [source]
Container Growing & Topiary
HouseholdSlow growth rate and naturally pencil-like form make Pencil Point Arborvitae suitable for large container specimens and potential topiary work, bringing vertical interest to patios and entryways. [source]
Harvest Tips
Not harvested for consumption. For foliage/cuttings for holiday decorations: cut small branches in winter when dormant; avoid cutting more than 1/3 of plant annually to maintain form and health.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Pencil Point Arborvitae is an extremely narrow cultivar—some specimens stay as narrow as 12-18 inches wide even at full maturity, making it one of the narrowest columnar conifers available.
- 🌱 The common name 'Arborvitae' comes from Latin meaning 'tree of life,' historically used by Native Americans and early colonists for its medicinal and practical applications.
- 🌱 This cultivar's fine, lacy foliage often turns an attractive bronze or purplish hue in winter cold in northern zones, then returns to bright green in spring—a beautiful seasonal transformation.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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