Trees

Thuja standishii × plicata 'Green Giant'

Green Giant arborvitae

Green Giant arborvitae. Photo: Photo by David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0

Green Giant is a vigorous hybrid arborvitae with dense green sprays and a broad pyramidal outline. It retains strong winter color and can establish a substantial screen quickly under suitable conditions. Its eventual size is much larger than many nursery specimens suggest, so reserve it for locations that can accommodate a tall tree and wide crown.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Size: Height: 40–60 ft · Width: 12–18 ft
Water: Moist, well-drained soil; tolerates periodic drought once established.
Hardiness: USDA zones 5–8

Sizes & prices

#5Green Giant Arborvitea$84.99
#7Green Giant Arborvitea$109.99
#10Green Giant Arborvitea$149.99
#15$199.99
#20Green Giant ArborviteaCall for price

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

Ask about this plant

Select a section to expand.

Landscape use & tree form

Form: Dense columnar-pyramidal
Growth rate: Rapid; 3–4 ft/year in optimal conditions
Use: Large screen; hedge; windbreak; specimen

Resistance & tolerances

Deer: Listed as deer resistant, not deer-proof.
Drought: Tolerates periodic drought after establishment.
Wet soil: Poor drainage can cause root rot; moist, well-drained soil is preferred.

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

Pollinators & wildlife

Birds: Attracted to this plant

Seasonal interest

Foliage: Evergreen; dark green

Growing & care

Pruning: Shape lightly in early spring if necessary, retaining leafy growth; avoid cutting into bare old wood.
Soil: Moist, well-drained soil; adaptable to clay, loam or sand.
Issues: Poor drainage can cause root rot; watch for bagworms and scale.

Sources & photo credits

NC State Extension

U.S. National Arboretum

www.udel.edu

Photo: Photo by David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0; resized for web without enlargement. · CC BY-SA 4.0

Image notes: Green Giant arborvitae. Photo: Photo by David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0; resized for web without enlargement.

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