Little Giant Arborvitae

Little Giant Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis 'Little Giant')

Little Giant Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis 'Little Giant') is a compact, globe-shaped evergreen prized for its dense form, rich green foliage, and year-round structure. Also known simply as Little Giant, this dwarf arborvitae brings refined texture and symmetry to small gardens, borders, and foundation plantings with minimal care.

Distinctive Features

This slow-growing, naturally rounded shrub reaches just 3 to 4 feet tall and wide, forming a tidy ball shape without regular pruning. Its soft, scale-like foliage stays deep green throughout the seasons, resisting browning in winter. The uniform shape and fine texture make it a reliable choice for formal or structured designs where low-growing evergreens are needed.

Growing Conditions

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

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Creates a neat, architectural accent in small or formal gardens
• Low Hedge: Ideal for borders or edging along walkways
• Rock Gardens: Provides evergreen structure among stones or gravel
• Foundation Planting: Fits perfectly beneath windows or eaves
• Containers: Thrives as a compact specimen on patios or courtyards

Low Maintenance Care

Little Giant Arborvitae requires very little upkeep once established, making it ideal for low-maintenance landscapes.

• Pruning: Lightly prune in early spring if needed to refine shape
• Mulching: Apply mulch to conserve moisture and insulate roots
• Watering: Water during dry periods, especially during the first year
• Fertilizing: Feed with a balanced evergreen fertilizer in spring
• Clean Up: Remove any interior dieback to maintain dense growth

Why Choose Little Giant Arborvitae?

Little Giant Arborvitae combines reliable performance, elegant form, and easy care, making it a versatile choice for compact spaces.

• Perfectly Rounded Form: Naturally maintains a tidy globe shape without trimming
• Evergreen Texture: Provides rich color and structure year-round
• Cold Hardy: Thrives in northern climates with harsh winters
• Space-Saving: Compact size fits tight spaces and containers
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal pruning or special care

For gardeners seeking a dependable, compact evergreen with a refined shape, Little Giant Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis 'Little Giant') is an excellent choice for adding structure and year-round beauty to small garden spaces.