How to Grow Woodwardii Arborvitae
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Woodwardii Arborvitae
Thuja occidentalis 'Woodwardii'
shrubWoodwardii is a compact, pyramidal cultivar of Eastern arborvitae with dense, feathery green foliage that transitions to bronze or copper tones in winter. It grows slowly and maintains a naturally neat form, making it ideal for small gardens, hedges, and foundation plantings. This evergreen shrub is extremely hardy and low-maintenance.
When should you plant Woodwardii Arborvitae in your zone?
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Example Woodwardii Arborvitae timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Woodwardii 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 Woodwardii Arborvitae
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Woodwardii Arborvitae dates for your own zip code.
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 Woodwardii Arborvitae timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
First 1-2 yearsYoung transplant with small pyramidal form and bright green foliage
Water regularly to keep soil moist. Mulch around base to retain moisture and moderate soil temperature. Shelter from strong winds if possible.
Juvenile Growth
Years 2-4Plant develops denser branching and slight increase in height; foliage remains vibrant green
Continue regular watering during dry periods. Prune lightly in early spring to encourage bushier growth and shape. Remove any dead or damaged branches.
Maturation
Years 4-8+Plant reaches mature pyramidal form (typically 12-20 feet tall and 3-5 feet wide); develops bronze-copper winter coloring
Minimal pruning needed; deadhead dead branches. Water during extended droughts. Can tolerate light shearing for formal hedges.
Winter Dormancy
November-March (varies by zone)Foliage transitions to bronze, copper, or brownish-green tones; plant enters reduced metabolic state
No active feeding needed. Ensure adequate moisture before ground freezes to prevent winter desiccation. Prune before growth resumes in spring.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Prune out affected branch tips. Spray with insecticidal soap in early summer if severe. Generally causes cosmetic damage only.
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Increase humidity with occasional overhead watering. Spray with water to dislodge mites. Use miticide if infestation is severe.
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Improve drainage; avoid overwatering. Ensure good air circulation. Remove and dispose of severely affected plants.
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Hand-pick bags in late fall or winter. Spray with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) in spring when larvae are small.
Uses
Hedges and Screens
LandscapeWoodwardii's dense pyramidal form and slow growth make it ideal for creating formal hedges, privacy screens, and windbreaks. It tolerates regular pruning and maintains shape beautifully. [source]
Foundation Planting
LandscapeIts compact, vertical form is perfect for softening home corners and framing entryways while remaining proportional to residential architecture. Winter color adds visual interest year-round. [source]
Wildlife Shelter
WildlifeDense foliage provides excellent shelter and nesting sites for birds and small mammals. The evergreen structure offers winter protection for wildlife. [source]
Winter Interest
HouseholdThe bronze-copper winter coloring provides visual appeal during dormant seasons, especially in mixed shrub borders and winter gardens. Contrasts beautifully with snow. [source]
Aromatic Foliage
CraftThe foliage contains pleasant aromatic oils and can be crushed for a mild cedar-like scent. Occasionally used in arrangements for its evergreen quality. [source]
Harvest Tips
Not applicable for ornamental use. For propagation, collect seeds from cones in fall or take semi-hardwood cuttings in summer.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Thuja occidentalis was one of the first North American trees introduced to Europe, brought back by French explorer Jacques Cartier in the 1500s, and was used to treat scurvy due to its vitamin C content.
- 🌱 The name 'Woodwardii' honors the Woodward nurseries that developed and popularized this cultivar in the late 20th century.
- 🌱 Arborvitae foliage contains thujone, a compound that gives it its characteristic aromatic scent and has been used traditionally in herbal medicine, though it should not be ingested in large quantities.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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