Nigra Arborvitae

Nigra Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis 'Nigra')

Nigra Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis 'Nigra') is a fast-growing, upright evergreen valued for its rich dark green color, dense foliage, and strong vertical form. Also known as Dark American Arborvitae, this cultivar maintains its deep green hue throughout winter, offering reliable year-round privacy and structure.

Distinctive Features

This pyramidal evergreen typically grows 20 to 30 feet tall and 6 to 10 feet wide. It features dense, soft, fan-like foliage in a rich dark green tone that holds color better than many other arborvitae. The uniform shape and lush texture make it ideal for hedging, screening, or vertical accents in the landscape.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to light shade
• Soil Type: Moist, well-drained loam or sandy soil
• Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral
• Water Needs: Moderate; appreciates consistent moisture
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3 to 7

Ideal Uses

• Focal point in narrow planting spaces
• Privacy screen or living fence along property lines
• Windbreak or sound buffer in suburban landscapes
• Background planting for garden beds or borders
• Formal vertical element in structured garden designs

Low Maintenance Care

• Minimal pruning needed to maintain natural form
• Water during extended dry spells to prevent browning
• Mulch to retain moisture and regulate root temperature
• Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring
• Monitor for deer in areas with browsing pressure

Why Choose Nigra Arborvitae

• Maintains deep green foliage all year long
• Fast-growing with a narrow, upright habit
• Excellent for screens, hedges, and windbreaks
• Adaptable to a variety of soil and site conditions
• A bold vertical focal point for both residential and commercial landscapes

Nigra Arborvitae is a cold-hardy evergreen with dependable color and structure, making it a smart focal point for privacy, contrast, and year-round visual interest in any garden or landscape.