Korean Arborvitae

(Thuja koraiensis)

Korean Arborvitae (Thuja koraiensis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Thuja koraiensis, commonly known as Korean Arborvitae, is an evergreen tree native to mountain forests and valleys in Korea and parts of northeastern China. It typically grows to a height of 3–10 meters. Korean Arborvitae has a conical to broadly pyramidal shape with dense, flat sprays of foliage. The scale-like leaves are 2–4 mm long, extending up to 15 mm on vigorous shoots, matte dark green on the upper side, and feature broad, vivid white stomatal bands on the underside. The cones are distinctive, starting as oval, yellow-green, and ripening to red-brown, measuring 7–11 mm in length and 4–5 mm in width, opening to 6–9 mm broad with 8-12 overlapping scales.

This species is valued for its ornamental foliage, which provides a striking contrast between the green upper and bright white lower sides. It is suitable for use as a specimen tree, in privacy screens, or as part of a conifer collection. Korean Arborvitae requires moderate watering and thrives in well-drained soils, tolerating both full sun and partial shade. While it is not commonly found in cultivation due to seed scarcity, it is a low-maintenance choice for gardeners who can obtain it.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 15-30 feet
  • Width: 10-15 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Non-Flowering
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Fragrant, Hedges, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to mountain forests and valleys in Korea and parts of northeastern China

Other Names

Common Names: Korean Arbor-Vitae, Korean Thuja, Koreanischer Lebensbaum, Thuya De Corée, Koreai Életfa, Tuia Della Corea, Туя Корейская (Tuya Korejskaya), 朝鲜側柏 (Chao Xian Ce Bai), 朝鲜崖柏 (Chao Xian Ya Bai), Korejska Tuja

Scientific Names: , Thuja koraiensis, Thuja kongoensis,

GBIF Accepted Name: Thuja koraiensis Nakai