Size
Wondering how tall arborvitae grow before you commit to planting one? The answer might surprise you—some varieties stretch toward the sky like skyscrapers, while others stay neatly contained in small spaces. 🌲 If you're dreaming of a towering privacy screen or a cozy hedge, knowing these heights upfront saves you from future headaches (and pruning battles).
Let’s cut through the confusion. Arborvitae aren’t one-size-fits-all; their mature heights range from 3 feet for dwarf varieties to a staggering 50+ feet for fast-growing giants like the Green Giant. That means your choice could determine whether you’re planting a backyard statement piece or a low-maintenance border. The right pick depends on your space—and your patience.
I’ll break down the fastest-growing types, how sunlight and soil affect their height, and even share 3 simple tricks to keep them in check. Whether you’re working with a tight urban lot or a sprawling rural property, you’ll leave here knowing exactly which arborvitae will fit—and thrive—without overpowering your landscape.
Ready to stop guessing and start planting with confidence? Let’s dive into the varieties that grow fastest and how to manage their height like a pro.
Arborvitae mature heights by variety: fastest-growing trees explained
Arborvitae heights vary dramatically between varieties, so picking the right one for your space is key. The fastest-growing arborvitae can shoot up 3-5 feet per year in ideal conditions, while dwarf types stay under 6 feet their entire lives. Knowing these differences helps you avoid planting a 50-foot tree where a 10-foot hedge would fit perfectly.
Let’s start with the tallest arborvitae varieties—the ones that grow 50+ feet and create dramatic privacy screens. These are perfect for large properties but require serious space planning. If you’re working with limited room, we’ll also cover compact arborvitae that stay under 10 feet and thrive in containers or small gardens.
Here’s the breakdown of 10+ arborvitae varieties by mature height, growth rate, and ideal spacing. I’ve included my top picks for fast growth and low maintenance, plus spacing tips to prevent overcrowding.
The Green Giant arborvitae is the undisputed king of fast growth, reaching 50 feet in as little as 10-15 years with proper care. If you’re aiming for a quick privacy screen, this is my top recommendation—but only if you have the space. Plant it 8-12 feet from structures or other plants to avoid overcrowding.
For small spaces, the Dwarf Blue Star and Crippsii varieties are game-changers. These stay under 6 feet and grow slowly, making them ideal for containers
How to choose arborvitae based on height and landscape needs
Selecting the right arborvitae height isn’t just about space—it’s about matching your landscape goals. Need a privacy screen? A foundation border? Or a container-friendly accent? The variety you pick determines whether you’ll end up with a lush green wall or a towering giant that blocks your view. Let’s break down how to choose by height category and purpose.
Start by measuring your space. If you’re working with under 10 feet of height, dwarf varieties like Dwarf Blue Star or Crippsii are perfect for containers or small gardens. These stay manageable and fit neatly into urban landscapes or patio designs. For medium spaces (10-20 feet), varieties like Emerald Green or Leigh create ideal hedges or foundation plantings without overwhelming your yard.
Here’s how to match arborvitae heights to your specific needs, from privacy to aesthetics:
- 🌲 Under 10 feet: Dwarf varieties (e.g., Dwarf Blue Star, Crippsii) for containers, small hedges, or urban gardens. Ideal for patios, walkways, or foundation borders where space is tight.
- 🌳 10-20 feet: Semi-dwarf types (e.g., Emerald Green, Taylor) for privacy hedges, windbreaks, or medium-height borders. Perfect for yards with 6-10 feet of clearance from structures.
- 🏡 20-40 feet: Standard varieties (e.g., American Arborvitae, Star) for large privacy screens, woodland gardens, or wildlife habitats. Requires 10+ feet of spacing from buildings or other plants.
- 🌿 50+ feet: Fast-growing giants (e.g., Green Giant) for massive privacy barriers or statement trees. Only plant these if you have 20+ feet of clearance and a long-term commitment.
For privacy screening, aim for varieties that reach your desired height within 5-10 years. The Green Giant is a top pick for quick results, while Emerald Green offers a slower, more controlled growth for neat hedges. If you’re planting near a house or driveway, stick to semi-dwarf or dwarf varieties to avoid blocking light or views.
Pro tip: Check your local climate zone—arborvitae thrive in USDA Zones 3-7, but taller varieties may need extra winter protection in colder regions. Always plant with proper spacing to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to pests or disease.
Ready to pick the perfect arborvitae? Grab a tape measure, sketch your space, and choose a variety that fits your height goals and landscape style. Your future self will thank you when you’re not scrambling to prune a 50-foot tree in your backyard! 🌿