Name: Hiba Arborvitae (Thujopsis Dolabrata) - 3 Gallon Pot
SKU: D2LSC 3279852027
Availability: InStock

Hiba Arborvitae

Thujopsis dolobrata ‘Hondai’

Other Names: Asunaro, Deerhorn Cedar, Elkhorn Cedar, False Arborvitae, Lizard Tree,

Plant Details

USDA Plant Hardiness Zones: 5a-7b (8?) Find Your Zone

Plant Type: Coniferous Evergreen

Height at Maturity: 30-40′

Width at Maturity: 8-12′

Spacing: 6-7′ apart for solid screens; 15’+ for space between plants

Growth Habit / Form: Pyramidal

Growth Rate: Moderate

Foliage Color: Deep Green

Fragrant Foliage: Yes, pine scented

Sun Needs: Full Sun to Part Shade; densest foliage in more sun

Water Needs: Average

Soil Type: Clay (amend heavy clay to ensure good drainage), Loam, Sandy, Silt

Soil Drainage: Moist But Well Drained

Soil pH: 6.0 – 8.0

Maintenance / Care: Very Low

Attracts: Visual Attention

Resistances: Cold Temperatures (-20F / Zones 5-8), Deer – more info, Disease, Insect

Description

Hiba Arborvitae, Thujopsis dolabrata ‘Hondai’, is a selection from central Japan that is much more heat and sun tolerant than the species, but very similar in appearance. The parent tree we use to propagate our potted plants has a very elegant pyramid form. Though it can grow to 100 feet tall in its native habitat, in the U.S. we expect it to reach a height of maybe 30 to 40 feet tall and 8 to 12 feet wide at the base over time when grown in full sun, shorter and less dense in part shade. Its horizontal branches sweep upward at the tips and are clothed with arborvitae-like flat fans of glossy, almost plastic-like green leaves that have striking white undersides, which we think is more attractive than that of similar looking arborvitae (Thuja). Reddish -brown bark that sheds with age is also attractive. Its excellent form and foliage makes the Hiba Arborvitae a fine choice for a specimen, in groupings, or in privacy screens, where it is sure to be a conversation piece.

Note: We have this one listed as hardy in USDA Zones 5a-7b. We have it growing in our Zone 7 of North Carolina location for many years where it is doing fine during the summer months, but some sources say it will tolerate summer heat in Zone 8a-8b, however have yet to trial it in our Zone 8 of Georgia gardens so cannot confirm that.

Landscape & Garden Uses

Growing 30 to 40 tall and 8 to 12 feet wide, the Hiba Arborvitae is ideal for use as a specimen, in groupings, or in privacy screen plantings to block unwanted views, dampen sound, and to buffer wind. Also excellent for framing the corners of tall homes and other buildings. Can also be grown in pots and other containers where it serves as a unique centerpiece with foliage that contrasts nicely with flowers and other plants. A fine addition to conifer gardens, formal gardens, rock gardens and Asian gardens.

Spacing: 6-7′ apart for solid screen; 15′ apart for space between plants

Growing Preferences

The Hiba Arborvitae is very easy to grow in moist but well-drained soil of average fertility and full sun to part shade. Foliage will be more dense with more sun. We suggest at least 5 hours of direct sunlight per day. It requires no pruning. To facilitate faster but steady growth, fertilize in spring and again in late summer with a well-balanced shrub and tree type fertilizer. Deer turn their noses up to Arborvitae.

Helpful Articles

Click on a below to find advice from our experts on how to plant, fertilize, prune and water Arborvitae trees.

How To Plant & Care For Arborvitae Trees

Privacy Screen Design & Planting Tips

Plant Long & Prosper!

Meet The Wilson Brothers & Staff

Questions? Contact Us!

This tree is going to be gorgeous when full grown, the 3 gallon was so full and much larger than I anticipated. I ordered 6 of them, all arrived healthy and ready to plant. They have been in the ground for a few weeks and are doing well. I love the green and white stripe detail on the leaves.————————————————Thanks for the photo. We are so glad you are pleased and we hope you enjoy your purchase for years to come! Thanks for the kind words and wonderful review! 🙂 Beth Steele | WBG