Arborvitae heights range from three-foot dwarfs to sixty-foot giants depending on the specific cultivar you select. If you have ever wondered how tall do arborvitae grow, the answer is not a simple single number because this plant family is incredibly diverse. Your final height depends entirely on the variety you plant, your soil conditions, and how much sunlight they receive each day.
Most gardeners pick arborvitae for privacy screens or windbreaks. But planting the wrong size can lead to years of frustration. A tree that grows to 50 feet will quickly overwhelm a small suburban yard, while a dwarf variety might never provide the screening you wanted. Let’s break down the real numbers so you can choose with confidence.
How Tall Do Arborvitae Grow
The honest answer is that arborvitae grow anywhere from 3 feet to over 60 feet tall. The exact height depends on the species and the specific cultivar you choose. There are five main types of arborvitae you will encounter at nurseries, and each one has a completely different growth pattern.
American Arborvitae Heights
American arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis) is the classic eastern variety. These are the workhorses of the landscaping world. In their natural habitat, they can reach 60 feet tall, but most cultivated varieties stay between 20 and 40 feet. The “Emerald Green” cultivar is the most popular, and it tops out around 12 to 14 feet. “Nigra” grows a bit taller at 20 to 30 feet. If you have a large property, the straight species can become a massive tree, but it takes decades to get there.
Giant Arborvitae Heights
Giant arborvitae (Thuja plicata) lives up to its name. Also known as Western red cedar, this species is the true giant of the family. In the wild, these trees can exceed 200 feet, but garden cultivars are more modest. The “Green Giant” hybrid is the most famous. It grows rapidly and can reach 40 to 60 feet tall with a spread of 12 to 20 feet. If you need a tall, fast-growing screen, this is your best option. Just be prepared for the size.
Korean Arborvitae Heights
Korean arborvitae (Thuja koraiensis) is a lesser-known species. It is a smaller, more delicate plant that rarely exceeds 10 feet in cultivation. The foliage has a silver underside that looks beautiful in dappled shade. This is not a privacy screen plant. It works better as a specimen shrub or a low hedge. The “Glauca Prostrata” variety stays under 3 feet tall and spreads wide instead.
Japanese Arborvitae Heights
Japanese arborvitae (Thuja standishii) is another tall option. In its native habitat, it can reach 50 to 70 feet. However, it is less common in American nurseries. If you find one, expect a pyramidal shape with dense, dark green foliage. It grows slower than the Green Giant, so it takes longer to reach significant heights.
Dwarf Arborvitae Heights
Dwarf cultivars are perfect for small spaces. The “Rheingold” stays around 4 to 5 feet tall. “Golden Globe” is even smaller at 2 to 3 feet. These are excellent for foundation plantings or mixed borders. They do not provide privacy, but they add year-round color and structure. The “Hetz Midget” is one of the smallest, reaching only 2 feet tall after many years.
Growth Rate And Final Size
Knowing the potential height is only half the story. You also need to understand how fast these trees grow. Some arborvitae shoot up quickly, while others take their sweet time. This affects how long you will wait for your privacy screen to fill in.
Fast Growing Varieties
The “Green Giant” is the speed demon of the arborvitae world. It can grow 3 to 5 feet per year once established. That means a 2-foot potted plant can reach 10 feet in just a few years. “Spring Grove” and “Zebrina” are also fast growers. If you need quick coverage, these are your best bets. They will reach their maximum height in 15 to 20 years.
Slow Growing Varieties
Emerald Green arborvitae grows about 1 foot per year. It takes 10 to 15 years to reach its mature height of 12 to 14 feet. Dwarf varieties grow even slower, sometimes only adding 2 to 4 inches per year. This is fine for small gardens, but you need patience. If you plant a slow grower for privacy, you will be waiting a long time.
Factors That Affect Height
Your local conditions can change the final height significantly. Here are the most important factors:
- Sunlight: Arborvitae need at least 6 hours of direct sun to reach their full height. In shade, they become leggy and stay shorter.
- Soil moisture: These trees prefer consistently moist, well-drained soil. Drought stress will stunt their growth permanently.
- Soil pH: They prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0 to 7.5). Extreme pH levels can slow growth.
- Spacing: If you plant them too close together, they compete for resources and stay shorter.
- Climate: Hot, dry climates can limit height. Cooler, humid regions allow for maximum growth.
- Pruning: Topping an arborvitae stops upward growth. Never cut the central leader if you want height.
Choosing The Right Size For Your Yard
Before you buy, measure your planting area. You need to know the mature height and width, not just the size at the nursery. A common mistake is planting a giant tree in a tiny space. This leads to constant pruning, which ruins the natural shape.
For Privacy Screens
If you want to block a two-story neighbor’s window, you need at least 20 feet of height. The Green Giant is ideal for this. Plant them 8 to 10 feet apart for a dense screen. If you only need to block a ground-level view, Emerald Green at 12 feet is sufficient. Space them 3 to 4 feet apart for a tight hedge.
For Foundation Plantings
Dwarf varieties work best near your house. They will not grow into your gutters or block windows. “Golden Globe” and “Rheingold” are perfect for this purpose. They stay under 5 feet and add color without overwhelming the architecture. Plant them at least 3 feet away from the foundation to allow for air circulation.
For Windbreaks
Tall arborvitae make excellent windbreaks. You need a dense, tall row to deflect wind. Giant arborvitae are the best choice here. Plant them in a staggered double row for maximum protection. The trees should be at least 30 feet tall to protect a single-story home effectively.
How To Measure Your Arborvitae
If you already have arborvitae, you might want to track their growth. Here is a simple method to measure height accurately:
- Stand 20 to 30 feet away from the tree.
- Hold a ruler at arm’s length and measure the tree’s height in inches on the ruler.
- Measure the distance from your eye to the ruler (usually about 24 inches).
- Multiply the ruler measurement by the distance to the tree, then divide by the ruler distance.
- This gives you the approximate height in feet.
Alternatively, you can use a clinometer or a smartphone app. These tools are more accurate but require a clear view of the top of the tree.
Common Height Problems
Sometimes arborvitae do not reach their expected height. This can be frustrating, but it is usually fixable. Here are the most common issues and their solutions.
Tree Is Too Short
If your arborvitae is stunted, check the soil moisture first. These trees hate dry roots. Mulch around the base to retain moisture, but do not pile it against the trunk. Also, check for deer damage. Deer love to eat arborvitae foliage, and repeated browsing will keep the tree short.
Tree Is Too Tall
If your tree is outgrowing its space, you have a few options. You can transplant it to a larger area, but this is risky for mature trees. You can also prune the top, but this will permanently stop upward growth. The best solution is to choose a smaller cultivar next time. “Emerald Green” is a good replacement for Green Giant in small yards.
Uneven Growth
Sometimes one side of the tree grows faster than the other. This is usually due to uneven sunlight. The side facing the sun will grow denser and taller. You can correct this by pruning the taller side to match the shorter side. However, this is a temporary fix. The tree will always grow toward the light.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Average Height Of An Arborvitae?
The average height is around 15 to 20 feet for most garden cultivars. However, this varies widely. Dwarf types stay under 5 feet, while giant types can exceed 40 feet. The exact average depends on which species you plant.
How Long Does It Take For Arborvitae To Reach Full Height?
Most arborvitae reach their mature height in 10 to 15 years. Fast growers like Green Giant can do it in 10 years. Slow growers like Emerald Green may take 15 to 20 years. Dwarf varieties can take 20 years or more to reach their small maximum size.
Can You Keep Arborvitae Short By Pruning?
Yes, but you must start early. Prune the top leader when the tree is young to encourage lateral growth. However, once you cut the central leader, the tree will never grow taller. Regular shearing can maintain a specific height, but this requires annual maintenance.
Do Arborvitae Grow Taller In Shade Or Sun?
Arborvitae grow taller and denser in full sun. In shade, they become sparse and leggy. They may not reach their full height potential. If you have a shady area, choose a shade-tolerant variety like Korean arborvitae, but expect slower growth.
What Is The Tallest Arborvitae Variety?
The tallest cultivated variety is the Green Giant, which can reach 60 feet. The straight species of Western red cedar can grow even taller in the wild, but it is rarely planted in residential landscapes. For practical purposes, Green Giant is the tallest you will find at nurseries.
Final Thoughts On Arborvitae Height
Arborvitae height is not a mystery once you understand the varieties. The key is matching the plant to your space. Measure your planting area before you buy. Consider the mature height, not the cute little pot at the nursery. If you need a tall screen, choose Green Giant. If you need a small accent, choose a dwarf variety. With the right selection, your arborvitae will thrive and reach the perfect height for your landscape.
Remember that these trees are long-lived. A well-placed arborvitae can last 50 to 150 years. That means your choice today will affect your landscape for decades. Take your time, do your research, and pick the right size. Your future self will thank you when you are not constantly fighting a tree that is too big for its spot.
If you are still unsure, talk to your local nursery. They know which varieties grow best in your area. They can also tell you the typical mature height for your specific climate. Local knowledge is invaluable when it comes to planting trees. Dont be afraid to ask questions before you make a purchase.
One last tip: always check the plant tag before buying. It should list the mature height and width. If it doesn’t, ask the nursery staff. Do not rely on memory or guesswork. The tag is your best guide to understanding how tall your arborvitae will eventually grow.
Arborvitae are wonderful, versatile plants. With the right variety and proper care, they will provide beauty, privacy, and structure for generations. The height you get is entirely up to you and the choices you make today. So choose wisely, plant correctly, and enjoy your green giants or your tiny dwarfs.