Known scientifically as Thuja occidentalis and commonly referred to as the White cedar, these wonderful evergreen trees, much like the Eastern red cedar, are not a true cedar but actually a member of the cypress family in the Thuja genus. A native evergreen tree of North America, they can be found naturally growing throughout Canada and in various areas of the eastern United States. However, natural populations have dwindled and are even threatened due to deer finding the soft evergreen foliage an appetizing winter food. Trees of this variety are some of the longest living in North America, with recorded ages of over 1650 years based on growth rings, and the oldest known living tree approximately 1100 years old.

A slow to medium grower, the American arborvitae enjoys growing in a wide variety of soil types. Mature trees can reach heights of 40 feet witha spread of 10 to 15 feet. They can tolerate some shade but prefer to grow in full sun. Once planted and established they require very little care. Makes an excellent hedge row, wind break, or landscape specimen when planted solo or in pairs, such as foor or garden entry accent plants. Recommend planting distance when using as a wind break or hedge row is approximately 3 feet. Grows well in zones 3-8.