Trees

Thujopsis dolabrata

Hiba arborvitae

Thujopsis dolabrata foliage and cones at Arboretum Wirty, Poland; licensed species photograph, not current inventory.

Hiba arborvitae has thick, glossy green foliage with conspicuous pale markings beneath the scale-like leaves. Its dense pyramidal crown and flaking bark create a distinctive evergreen specimen, but cultivated trees still need considerable room. Moist soil and protection from drying exposure are important, especially where summer afternoon heat can stress the foliage.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Size: Height: 30–50 ft · Width: 15–25 ft
Water: Moist, well-drained soil; avoid dry conditions.
Hardiness: USDA zones 5–7

Sizes & prices

#3$119.99

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

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Landscape use & tree form

Form: Dense conical to pyramidal
Growth rate: Slow
Use: Large-space evergreen specimen
Fruit / litter: Small woody seed cones mature in fall.
Major issues: Winter burn and snow/ice breakage can occur; occasional leaf blight, canker and sucking pests.

Resistance & tolerances

Deer: Less susceptible to deer browsing than American or oriental arborvitae, according to extension guidance; not deer-proof.
Drought: Intolerant
Wet soil: Requires moist but well-drained soil.

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

Seasonal interest

Foliage: Evergreen; glossy green with white markings beneath

Growing & care

Site: Protect from wind and hot afternoon sun.
Pruning: Preserve its naturally dense conical crown; remove damaged or broken branches and avoid unnecessary shearing.
Siting: Shelter from drying winds; afternoon shade is helpful in hot-summer locations.
Soil: Moist, well-drained, acidic to neutral loam.

Sources & photo credits

NC State Extension

University of Minnesota Extension

ask.extension.org

Photo: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz · CC BY-SA 4.0

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