How to Grow Rheingold Arborvitae

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Rheingold Arborvitae

Thuja occidentalis 'Rheingold'

shrub

Rheingold is a dwarf, ornamental evergreen shrub known for its feathery, fern-like foliage that changes color seasonally from golden-yellow in summer to copper-bronze or russet in winter. It grows slowly into a compact, irregular mound shape, typically reaching 3-4 feet tall and wide at maturity. This cultivar is prized for its year-round visual interest and low-maintenance nature, making it ideal for foundation plantings, borders, and small spaces.

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Example Rheingold Arborvitae timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)

Plant Rheingold Arborvitae
Around Apr 17

Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
Tend & protect
Late spring–summer

Watering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
Harvest Rheingold Arborvitae
Late summer into fall

Before the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)

Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Rheingold Arborvitae dates for your own zip code.

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Full sun to partial shade; 6+ hours of direct sunlight daily produces best color and density; afternoon shade beneficial in hot climates

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Water: Moderate watering; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during establishment (first 1-2 years). Once established, relatively drought-tolerant but performs better with regular watering during dry spells. Water deeply and less frequently to encourage deep root development. Avoid overhead watering to reduce disease risk.

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Spacing: 36-48 inches

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Days to maturity: 3-5 years to reach ornamental maturity

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Planting depth: Plant container-grown specimens at the same depth as the root ball; ensure the top of root ball is level with soil surface

Soil

Type: Well-draining loamy to sandy soil, adaptable to various soil types

pH: 6.0-7.5

Amendments:

Compost or aged bark mulch for moisture retention Perlite or coarse sand if soil tends to be heavy or clay-based Peat moss to improve moisture-holding capacity in sandy soils

Growing Zones

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Thrives best in zones 3-7; hardy in zones 2-8

2a 2b 3a 3b 4a 4b 5a 5b 6a 6b 7a 7b 8a

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Growth Stages

Establishment

First 1-2 years

Young shrub with delicate, feathery foliage; typically 12-18 inches tall; foliage is soft-textured and bright golden-yellow

Plant in spring or early fall. Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist. Mulch around base with 2-3 inches of organic material, keeping it 6 inches away from stem. Prune lightly to shape if desired, but avoid heavy pruning at this stage.

Vegetative Growth

Years 2-3

Shrub develops fuller form and reaches 2-3 feet in height; feathery foliage becomes denser; golden-yellow color maintained throughout growing season

Continue regular watering during dry periods. Light annual pruning in late winter or early spring can maintain shape. Monitor for spider mites in hot, dry conditions. Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring if soil is poor.

Maturation

Years 3-5

Plant reaches near-mature size of 3-4 feet; develops characteristic mounded form; foliage transitions to copper-bronze and russet tones in fall and winter

Reduce watering frequency; established plants are drought-tolerant. Prune only to maintain shape or remove dead/damaged branches. Apply slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Monitor for winter damage from heavy snow or ice.

Mature

Year 5 onwards

Fully developed mounded form with rich seasonal color changes; golden-yellow in warmer months, deepening to russet or bronze in cold weather

Water during extended dry periods. Minimal pruning needed; remove any dead wood or crossing branches. Avoid heavy pruning which can damage plant. In hot climates, afternoon shade prevents foliage scorch.

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Dwarf Japanese Maple Heuchera (Coral Bells) Hosta Sedum Juniper cultivars Yew Mugo Pine Ornamental grasses Hellebore

Avoid planting near:

Plants requiring acidic soil (blueberries, azaleas, rhododendrons if soil pH is alkaline) Tall trees that create dense shade Plants that require frequent overhead watering Black walnut (Juglans nigra) - releases allelopathic compounds

Common Pests

Spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil or insecticidal soap in hot, dry conditions; ensure adequate moisture
Remove bags by hand in late fall or winter; spray with Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) in early summer when caterpillars emerge
Prune out affected branch tips; apply neem oil in spring when damage first appears
Spray with horticultural oil in early spring before growth begins; prune out heavily infested branches
Install fencing or deer netting; apply deer repellent sprays; plant may recover with rest and care

Uses

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Ornamental Screening & Foundation Planting

Landscape

Rheingold's compact mounded form and dramatic seasonal color changes make it an excellent choice for foundation plantings, mixed borders, and small accent plantings. Its dwarf stature works well in Japanese gardens and modern minimalist landscapes. [source]

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Fresh Evergreen Arrangements

Craft

The feathery, aromatic foliage provides beautiful texture and golden-yellow color for winter arrangements and wreaths, particularly valued for its color retention in dried arrangements. [source]

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Wildlife Shelter & Food

Wildlife

Dense foliage provides shelter for birds and small wildlife during winter months. Some species consume the foliage, though deer browsing is typically light on this cultivar. [source]

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Winter Interest & Color

Household

The dramatic color transformation from golden-yellow to bronze and russet during winter months provides significant ornamental interest when most other plants are dormant, brightening winter landscapes. [source]

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Traditional Herbal Use

Medicinal

Thuja species have been used traditionally in Native American and herbal medicine, though Rheingold is primarily grown as an ornamental; arborvitae contains thujone compounds. [source]

This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.

Harvest Tips

Not typically harvested for consumption. Foliage can be pruned for fresh arrangements, particularly in winter when bronze coloring is most vibrant. Cut sprigs with sharp pruners early in the morning; place immediately in water. Light pruning (no more than 1/3 of plant) encourages bushier growth.

Fun Facts

🌱 Rheingold's name derives from the famous Wagnerian opera 'Das Rheingold,' and the cultivar name reflects the golden color of its summer foliage, creating a poetic reference to the mythical gold of the Rhine River.
🌱 The dramatic seasonal color transformation—from warm golden-yellow to deep russet-bronze—is caused by a natural change in the plant's pigment production in response to cold temperatures; this makes it particularly valuable for winter interest in the landscape.
🌱 Rheingold is one of the most compact cultivars of eastern arborvitae and was selected for its slow growth rate and reliable form, making it ideal for modern residential landscapes and containers where space is limited.

Gardening Terms

New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:

Annual Cultivar Full Sun Mulch Partial Shade

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