Thuja ‘Green Giant’ (Thuja plicata x standishii ‘Green Giant’)

Here is a description for Thuja ‘Green Giant’ formatted like the example provided.

Latin Name: Thuja standishii x plicata ‘Green Giant’

Common Name: Green Giant Arborvitae

Zone: 5-8

Mature Height: A fast-growing coniferous evergreen, ‘Green Giant’ can reach a height of 50 to 60 feet, with a broad, pyramidal shape and a spread of 12 to 20 feet. Its growth rate is exceptionally rapid, often averaging 3 to 5 feet per year in ideal conditions.

Soil/ Climate: ‘Green Giant’ is an adaptable and resilient tree. It thrives in a wide range of soils but performs best in moist, well-drained loams. It tolerates full sun to partial shade and can handle various environmental stressors, including heat, humidity, drought, and cold. It is more tolerant of dry spells than its parent,

Notes: Its foliage consists of rich green, scale-like leaves in flattened sprays that remain vibrant and dense throughout the winter. The bark is reddish-brown, fibrous, and peels in strips. Due to its rapid growth and dense form, it is an extremely popular choice for creating living privacy screens and hedges. For a dense screen, it is recommended to space the trees 5 to 6 feet apart.

Problems: ‘Green Giant’ is known for its excellent resistance to pests and diseases¹¹. It is rarely troubled by major insect problems, although bagworms can occasionally be an issue in some areas. It is also highly resistant to the serious diseases that can affect other arborvitae varieties. Unlike Thuja occidentalis, it is not typically favored by deer and is considered deer resistant.

Wildlife: The dense foliage provides excellent cover and nesting sites for birds. While it does not produce significant fruit or nectar, its structure offers valuable protection from predators and harsh weather for various wildlife species.