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thuja occidentalis nz

Discovering the best options for Thuja occidentalis NZ is easy with our extensive range of reliable, hardy conifers ideal for New Zealand gardens. Thuja occidentalis, also known as Northern White Cedar, is an attractive evergreen renowned for its lush green foliage, upright habit, and year-round interest. Its adaptability and versatility make the species a popular choice for privacy hedges, windbreaks, and low-maintenance borders throughout the country. Whether you dream of creating a structured formal garden or simply want an easy-care hedge, Thuja occidentalis NZ stands out as a practical and beautiful solution.

Thuja occidentalis 'Smaragd' hedge with bright green foliage.

Thuja occidentalis 'Smaragd' (Green Cedar)

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Thuja 'Smaragd', commonly known as the Green or Emerald Cedar, grows with a narrow, dense, and columnar habit. The foliage is rich green, sometimes tinged bronze in winter, and produced with a somewhat layered effect to give the plant an interesting texture. It typically grows to 7 m in height and 2.5 m in width in full sun.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Conifers
Height: 7.00 m
Spread: 2.50 m
Tolerances: Extended dry periods, Hardy
Garden uses: Containers, Hedging, Screening
Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Formal, Frontyard, Modern
A young Thuja plicata (Western Red Cedar) tree in a forest standing four metres tall.

Thuja plicata

Thuja plicata, commonly known as the Western Red Cedar, is a conifer that grows into an attractive and large tree. It grows with a dense, conical shape, producing green foliage that develops distinctive bronze tones during winter as it slowly grows to about 25 m tall and 15 m wide.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Conifers
Height: 25.00 m
Spread: 15.00 m
Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wind
Garden uses: Parks, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles: Architectural, Coastal, Modern
A young Thuja plicata (Western Red Cedar) tree in a forest standing four metres tall.
Thuja plicata

Thuja plicata, commonly known as the Western Red Cedar, is a conifer that grows into an attractive and large tree. It grows with a dense, conical...

From$17.95
Thuja orientalis 'Blue Cone' shrubs with green foliage in pots.
Thuja orientalis 'Blue Cone'

Thuja 'Blue Cone' is a dwarf conifer that features dense and erect sprays of green foliage. It gets its name from the blue cones produced during...

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Thuja plicata 'Old Gold'

Thuja plicata 'Old Gold' is a striking evergreen conifer valued for its rich golden foliage and dense growth habit. The vibrant colour provides year...

Thuja plicata 'Green Giant' trees standing 5 m tall as a lush, green screen.
Thuja 'Green Giant'

Thuja 'Green Giant' is a smaller variety of Cedar and bears sprays of glossy, dark green foliage held on slender stems. The result is a tree with a...

From$16.95
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Sophora longicarinata yellow flowers.
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Sophora longicarinata is a rare and beautiful NZ native tree belonging to the kowhai family. This evergreen to semi deciduous species is admired for...

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Coprosma kirkii 'Variegata' plants in pots.
Coprosma kirkii 'variegata'

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Coprosma 'Poor Knights' (Taupata)

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Coprosma kirkii green foliage held on yellow stems.
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Metrosideros excelsa (Pohutukawa) specimen tree with masses of red flowers in a coastal location.
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Thuja occidentalis 'Smaragd' (Green Cedar)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Coprosma, Olive, and Sophora, or related Categories - Conifer Shrubs, Conifer Trees, and Olive Trees.

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Why Choose Thuja occidentalis in New Zealand?

Thuja occidentalis thrives in New Zealand’s variable climate, handling cold winters and warm summers with ease. These conifers perform well in both full sun and partial shade, and they tolerate a range of soil conditions—from clay to sandy loam. Their dense, conical growth habit makes them particularly effective for creating privacy screens or shelterbelts, helping you design a tranquil outdoor space protected from wind and noise. Furthermore, Thuja occidentalis is low-maintenance and relatively disease-resistant, reducing the effort required to keep your garden looking its best.

Popular Varieties of Thuja occidentalis NZ

New Zealand gardeners can select from several distinctive Thuja occidentalis varieties, each with unique characteristics. Classic Thuja occidentalis is perfect for traditional hedging, while Thuja occidentalis 'Pyramidalis' offers a narrow, columnar form ideal for tighter spaces or formal rows. For a compact, slow-growing specimen, Thuja occidentalis Holmstrup features neat, dense foliage with a tidy shape that needs minimal trimming. The ever-popular Thuja occidentalis 'Smaragd' (Green Cedar) remains vibrant green throughout the year, even in winter, making it a top pick for year-round colour. If you’re after an ornamental touch, Thuja occidentalis 'Rheingold' stands out with its golden-bronze foliage in autumn and winter, providing a striking contrast in mixed plantings or rock gardens.

Planting and Caring for Thuja occidentalis in NZ

To get the most from your Thuja occidentalis NZ selection, plant in well-drained soil with added compost to encourage strong root development. Water deeply during the first growing season, then allow natural rainfall to provide most of the moisture once established. A spring mulch helps retain moisture and suppress weeds, while an annual feed with a balanced slow-release fertiliser will promote healthy new growth. Pruning is rarely needed but can be done to maintain shape or desired height, particularly for hedges.

Enhance Your NZ Garden With Thuja occidentalis

Choosing Thuja occidentalis NZ adds versatility and elegance to your home landscape. Whether you opt for the stately Thuja occidentalis 'Pyramidalis', the vibrant Thuja occidentalis 'Smaragd' (Green Cedar), or the golden hues of Thuja occidentalis 'Rheingold', you’ll be investing in a plant that delivers lasting beauty with minimal fuss. Explore our full selection and transform your New Zealand garden with the sophisticated charm of Thuja occidentalis.


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