Hiba Arborvitae

Hiba Arborvitae (Thujopsis dolabrata)

An exotic conifer that resembles a thuja, but with much larger and more textured foliage.

• Appearance: A slow-growing tree or shrub with a broad pyramidal crown. The height in cultivation is usually 2–3 m. The branches are spreading, slightly drooping at the tips.
• Foliage (the main feature): Scale-like, very broad and flat (much larger than that of a thuja). On top it is glossy and dark green, while underneath it has bright white markings, creating a striking contrast.
• Conditions: Very shade-tolerant. It likes high air humidity and fertile, well-moistened soils. It does not tolerate drought or strong winds.
• Care: Frost-hardy, but in severe winters young plants may suffer frost damage. It needs a spot sheltered from the wind. It hardly needs any clipping.