Hiba Arborvitae

Hiba Arborvitae (Thujopsis dolabrata) stands out first of all for its texture: no other conifer has foliage like this. Large glossy dark green scales lie in flat fans, and the underside of each is marked with a bright white blaze, so when the wind turns a branch the whole crown seems to flash silver.

This is a plant for a shady, moist, sheltered corner: a specimen in a woodland garden, or a tall green screen. With age the tree grows conical and substantial, over 12 m tall and 4-8 m wide, so give it room from the start. It forgives neither dry soil nor drying winds.

Key characteristics:

• What makes it special: The species name dolabrata means 'hatchet-shaped': the white stomatal bands on the underside of the scales really do form a tiny axe.
• Dimensions: Over 4 m tall at 10 years, and over 12 m tall and 4-8 m wide when mature.
• Hardiness: Hardy down to -29 °C (USDA zone 5).
• Light: Sun or partial shade; deep shade and open windy spots are best avoided.
• Soil: Loves moist, well-drained neutral to slightly acid soil; it will not tolerate dry ground.
• Watering: Water regularly and generously: it cannot take drought, so the soil must stay constantly moist.
• Care: No pruning needed; give it a spot sheltered from cold dry winds and shake snow off the branches.
• Landscape use: An architectural specimen for a woodland garden, and a tall hedge or screen for the winter garden.
• Origin: A wild species from the moist forests of Japan, holder of the RHS Award of Garden Merit.