Golden Tuffet Arborvitae

Golden Tuffet Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis 'Golden Tuffet')

Golden Tuffet Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis 'Golden Tuffet') is a compact, mounded evergreen prized for its fine, thread-like foliage and brilliant golden-orange tones. Also known as Golden Tuffet White Cedar, this low-growing cultivar brings vivid color and soft texture to borders, rock gardens, and foundation plantings.

Distinctive Features

This dwarf selection grows just 1 to 2 feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide, forming a neat dome of feathery foliage. New growth emerges golden yellow and matures to warm amber, glowing brightest in full sun. In colder regions, its foliage often takes on copper or russet tones through winter, adding multi-season depth and interest.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Type: Moist, well-drained soil
• Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral
• Water Needs: Moderate; avoid prolonged drought
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3 to 7

Ideal Uses

• Rock Gardens: Adds glowing color and soft texture among stones and alpine plants
• Garden Borders: Provides a colorful, low edging along paths or beds
• Foundation Plantings: Offers year-round structure beneath windows or in front of taller shrubs
• Small Spaces: Perfect as a focal point in raised beds, slopes, or compact garden areas
• Container Planting: Creates a bright accent in pots for patios and courtyards

Low Maintenance Care

Golden Tuffet Arborvitae requires little care once established, making it an easy choice for low-maintenance landscapes.

• Watering: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots
• Mulching: Apply mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
• Fertilizing: Feed lightly in spring to support vibrant foliage color
• Pruning: Requires minimal pruning; trim only to remove dead or wayward branches
• Winter Protection: Shelter from harsh winds to prevent winter burn

Why Choose Golden Tuffet Arborvitae

Golden Tuffet Arborvitae blends vivid color, soft texture, and a naturally compact shape to brighten any landscape design.

• Brilliant Color: Golden-orange foliage shifts to coppery tones in winter
• Compact Form: Cushion-like habit fits perfectly in small spaces
• Year-Round Interest: Maintains shape and texture through every season
• Low Maintenance: Easy-care plant with minimal pruning needs
• Versatile Design: Works as edging, groundcover, or a bright container accent

Golden Tuffet Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis 'Golden Tuffet') offers glowing color and refined structure in a petite form, making it a cheerful focal point for small spaces and intricate garden designs.