Primo Arborvitae

Primo Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis 'Primo')

Primo Arborvitae is a narrow, upright selection with rich green summer color and a naturally sculpted, spire-like form that bronzes in winter. Slow growing and tightly textured, it provides refined evergreen structure for small spaces, containers, and formal designs.

Distinctive Features

Compact, dense foliage creates a sleek column that matures from a youthful mini-scape specimen into an elegant small tree. Introduced by Iseli, it grows about 3 to 5 in per year and maintains a clean, architectural outline with minimal care.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun.
• Soil: Moist, well drained loam or sandy soil.
• Water: Provide consistent moisture, especially during establishment and dry spells.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4.
• Mature Size: 4 ft tall and 1 ft wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Slim, formal spire adds vertical interest at entries and in courtyards.
• Containers: Suits patio pots and terrace planters where space is limited.
• Rock and Miniature Gardens: Proportions fit small-scale designs and miniscapes.
• Foundation Planting: Provides year-round structure beneath windows and along paths.
• Narrow Accents: Works as rhythm points in tight beds or along walkways.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water deeply and regularly the first season; maintain even moisture thereafter.
• Pruning: Rarely needed; clip stray shoots lightly to preserve the natural spire.
• Fertilizing: Feed in early spring with a balanced evergreen fertilizer if growth is light.
• Mulching: Apply a 2 to 3 in layer to conserve moisture and moderate soil temperature.
• Notes: Site in full sun with good air flow; monitor for deer browse in high-pressure areas.

Why Choose Primo Arborvitae?

• Narrow Footprint: True columnar form fits tight spaces where larger conifers will not.
• Refined Texture: Dense, fine foliage delivers a polished, formal look.
• Cold Ready: Hardy selection suited to northern landscapes.
• Low Growth Rate: 3 to 5 in per year reduces maintenance and shearing.
• Seasonal Appeal: Deep green in summer with a warm bronze tone in winter.

Plant in full sun with moist, well drained soil and consistent moisture to maintain its crisp, columnar silhouette.