'Green Giant' Arborvitae | Thuja plicata red cedar ‘Green Giant’

‘Green Giant’ Western Red Cedar is a fast-growing arborvitae hybrid cultivar (T. plicata x T. standishii) that is often promoted as a disease-free substitute for Leland cypress, particularly in the southeastern U.S. Trees may grow to 30-50’ tall with a dense, narrow, pyramidal habit, but can be easily kept more compact by pruning for screens or hedges. In the proper environment, trees can add up to 3-4’ of growth per year. Horizontal to slightly upright branching with sprays of scale-like dark green foliage. Foliage does not yellow in winter. Small, upright, light brown seed cones (to 1/2” long). Height: 25-30’ Spread: 12 to 18’ Exposure: Full Sun to Part Shade Hardiness Zone: 4-8 Growth Rate: Fast