Hiba - Thujopsis dolabrata (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Hiba

Also known as: Hiba Arborvitae, Japanese Thuja

Hiba (Thujopsis dolabrata) is a medium to large evergreen tree native to central Japan. This species grows best in moist forested areas. Hiba is also called elkhorn cedar and deerhorn cedar. This species is not drought tolerant and grows best when protected from the wind. Its latin name Thujopsis dolabrata means hatchet-shaped and references the shape of its leaves.

Scientific classification

Species

Hiba (Thujopsis dolabrata)

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

15 m to 40 m

Plant Height

Green

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Hiba

Distribution of Hiba

Distribution Map

Hiba, a coniferous tree, is endemic to the cool temperate forests of eastern Asia. It has been successfully introduced to parts of the larger eastern Asian continent, where it is now cultivated. Its presence is particularly established across regions characterized by a similar climate to its native habitat.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Sunny rocky places in the mountains

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Interesting Facts

Although hiba is a very tall tree that can grow up to 15 m tall, there is a dwarf variety named Thujopsis dolabrata 'Nana'. This cultivar is a low-spreading bush that usually grows up to 30 cm in height.

Name Story

False arborvitae||Hiba arborvitae||Japanese thuja: Many common names of Thujopsis dolabrata are related to the genus Thuja (arborvitae). This attractive conifer really looks like the common thuja, so it's often called false arborvitae or Japanse thuja.

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Quickly Identify Hiba

Robust pyramidal growth reaching 30-50 feet (9-15 meters).

Coarse, glossy green foliage with white stomatal bands beneath.

Distinctive flaky bark varying from gray to reddish-brown.

Small, solitary brown seed cones on terminal branches.

Thick, fleshy, glossy green scale-like leaves in decussate pairs.

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Hiba

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Hiba originates from Japan's moist woodlands, thriving in high humidity. It prefers consistent moisture every 1-2 weeks without waterlogging. Best cultivated outdoors, hiba benefits from mulching to retain moisture and replicate its natural habitat.

Fertilize: Hiba requires balanced fertilization biannually with a complete fertilizer (10-10-10 ratio) for optimal growth. Apply in early spring and mid-fall, watering afterward to enhance nutrient absorption. Use gradual release formulations and avoid exceeding recommended rates to prevent root burn.

Pruning: Hiba is an evergreen conifer with fan-like foliage and a pyramidal shape. Prune in early to late winter by removing dead branches, thinning foliage, and shaping for aesthetics. Clean, angled cuts promote healing, encouraging healthy growth and disease prevention, per RHS and local experts.

Propagation: Originating from Japan, hiba is an evergreen conifer valued for its unique foliage. Propagation via semi-hardwood cuttings from a healthy parent is most effective. Using rooting hormone and a sterile, well-draining medium enhances rooting success, along with careful handling to maintain cuttings' integrity.

Repotting: Repot hiba every 2-3 years in early spring for optimal growth. Use a slightly larger pot with good drainage. After repotting, maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging and provide partial shade to minimize shock and support recovery.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free