How to identify Arborvitaes (Thuja)

How to identify Arborvitaes (Thuja)

Arborvitaes, also known as Cedars

Arborvitaes is characterized by its dense, conical to pyramidal growth habit, which often culminates in a distinct conical crown. The foliage consists of small, scale-like leaves that exhibit rich green hues and may turn bronze in colder climates. These leaves are arranged in flattened sprays that contribute to an overall textured appearance. On the branches, one can sometimes find small, oval cones measuring up to 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) long. The bark tends to be fibrous and reddish-brown, providing a rugged contrast to the soft foliage. Mature specimens can tower at heights of 10 to 200 feet (3-61 meters), depending on the species within the genus.

Lifespan: Perennial

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify Arborvitaes

Dense conical growth habit with a distinct conical crown.

Scale-like leaves in flattened sprays without white markings underneath.

Oval woody cones, rough-textured, and maturing to rich brown color.

Fibrous reddish-brown bark with stringy texture and vertical ridges.

Small yellowish-brown pollen cones, crucial for reproductive cycle.

Detailed Traits of Arborvitaes

Leaf Features

Arborvitaes leaves are small and scale-like, forming tight, flat sprays that overlap like shingles. Each leaf measures approximately 0.1 to 0.2 inches (2.5 to 5 mm) in length. The leaves are vibrant green, with a smooth and somewhat glossy texture. Notably, they lack white markings underneath. Older leaves exhibit raised glands near the tip, a distinctive feature. They create a lush and dense foliage, contributing to the plant’s overall appearance.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

Arborvitaes exhibits small pollen cones rather than true flowers. These cones develop at the tips of the branches, measuring around 0.12 inches (3 mm) in length. They are typically yellowish or brownish-red in color, with a scaly texture. Each cone contains numerous overlapping scales that protect the pollen within. The cones appear in early spring and release pollen soon after maturation. Despite their modest size, these cones play a crucial role in the reproductive cycle of arborvitaes.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of arborvitaes resembles small, woody cones rather than traditional fleshy fruit. They are oval-shaped, typically around 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) in size, and mature to a rich brown hue. Each cone takes a considerable time to develop fully and only opens when mature, flaring open to expose its enclosed seeds. The texture of the cones is typically rough and scaled, providing a distinct feel that aids in identification. The visual and tactile characteristics of arborvitaes's cones are distinctive, allowing enthusiasts to recognize them with ease.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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