Trees

Thuja plicata '4EVER'

Forever Goldy western arborvitae

Also known as: Thuja plicata Forever Goldy · Thuja plicata 4EVER

Forever Goldy western arborvitae growing in a garden; not current Reminiscent stock. Photo: F. D. Richards / Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0

Forever Goldy forms an upright pyramid of bright golden-yellow foliage, bringing year-round color to a border or evergreen screen. Its narrow proportions also make it an effective individual accent among darker conifers. Give it a sunny position in moisture-retentive but well-drained soil; afternoon shade can be helpful in hot southern gardens.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun; afternoon shade tolerated in hotter regions
Size: Height: 10–12 ft in some grower estimates; Iseli lists 25 ft garden size. · Width: 3–4 ft in some grower estimates; Iseli lists 12 ft garden size.
Water: Consistently moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness: USDA zones 5–8

Sizes & prices

#3Forever Goldie Arborvitea$69.99
#7Forever Goldie Arborvitea$124.99
#10Forever Goldie Arborvitea$154.99

Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

Ask about this plant

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Landscape use & tree form

Form: Upright pyramidal
Use: Accent; border; hedge; decorative container
Growth rate: Fast; over 12 inches/year in Iseli's growth category

Resistance & tolerances

Deer: Listed as resistant by the grower; protect from browsing where deer pressure is high
Drought: Tolerates dry periods once established; water during prolonged drought
Wet soil: Species tolerates occasional wetness; prefers moist, well-drained soil.
Heat: Heat tolerant

Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.

Seasonal interest

Foliage: Evergreen; golden-yellow

Growing & care

Soil: Moist, fertile, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter, acidic to neutral.
Pruning: Shape lightly in early spring if necessary, retaining leafy growth; avoid cutting into bare old wood.
Issues: Bagworms and root rot can occur. Avoid exposed, drying sites and prolonged drought.

Sources & photo credits

Flowerwood Nursery

Greenthumb Nursery

NC State Extension

University of Minnesota Extension

www.udel.edu

Iseli Nursery

Photo: F. D. Richards / Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0; resized for web without enlargement. · CC BY-SA 2.0

Image notes: Forever Goldy western arborvitae growing in a garden; not current Reminiscent stock. Photo: F. D. Richards / Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0; resized for web without enlargement.

Reviewed September 22, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.