Thuja occidentalis 'Pyramidalis' (Pyramidal American Arborvitae)

Thuja occidentalis 'Pyramidalis' (Pyramidal American Arborvitae) is a cultivar of the Eastern Arborvitae native to North America. 

Form and Growth Habit: As the name suggests, 'Pyramidalis' has a tall, narrow, and pyramidal growth habit. It typically maintains a very tight, conical shape with dense foliage, making it an excellent choice for use as a vertical accent in landscapes or as a privacy screen.

Size: At maturity, 'Pyramidalis' can reach heights of 10 to 20 feet (3 to 6 meters), with a spread of 3 to 5 feet (1 to 1.5 meters). It tends to be narrower than the species' typical form, making it suitable for smaller garden spaces or as a specimen planting in tight areas.

Foliage: The foliage of Thuja occidentalis 'Pyramidalis' consists of scale-like leaves arranged in flattened sprays. The leaves are bright green and have a soft, feathery texture. The foliage retains its color well throughout the year, providing year-round interest in the landscape.

Cone: Like other cultivars of Thuja occidentalis, 'Pyramidalis' produces small, oblong cones that are typically inconspicuous and not ornamentally significant.

Hardiness: 'Pyramidalis' is well-suited to USDA hardiness zones 3 to 7, where it thrives in a variety of soil types and moisture conditions. It prefers full sun to partial shade and is relatively tolerant of urban pollution and deer browsing.

Uses: This cultivar is commonly used in residential and commercial landscapes as a specimen tree, privacy screen, or windbreak. Its narrow form and dense foliage make it particularly effective for creating vertical accents or defining boundaries.

Maintenance: Thuja occidentalis 'Pyramidalis' is relatively low-maintenance once established. It benefits from regular watering during dry periods, especially in the first few years after planting. Pruning is generally not necessary, but occasional shaping may be desired to maintain its pyramidal form.

Disease and Pests: While arborvitae can be susceptible to certain diseases such as cedar apple rust and foliar blight, 'Pyramidalis' is generally resistant to major pests and diseases when provided with proper care and growing conditions.

Overall, Thuja occidentalis 'Pyramidalis' is a popular and versatile cultivar of the Eastern Arborvitae, valued for its narrow, upright growth habit, attractive foliage, and adaptability to a wide range of growing conditions. It adds year-round beauty and structure to landscapes and is well-suited to various garden styles and settings.