Growzone: 3 - 7
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Plant Options
| Bare Root Prices | ||
|---|---|---|
| Height | 25-99 | 100+ |
| 12" - 18" | Available Spring 2027 - Email to Join the Waitlist | Available Spring 2027 - Email to Join the Waitlist |
| Potted Prices | ||
| Height | 1-50 | 50+ |
| 18" - 24" | Low Stock - Email for Availability (25.00) | Low Stock - Email for Availability (23.00) |
| 2' - 3' | $35.00 | $33.00 |
| 3' - 4' | $45.00 | $45.00 |
Description
Description
American Arborvitae, also known as White Cedar, is a native evergreen prized for its dense foliage, adaptability, and outstanding performance as a windbreak and privacy tree. With its bright green, scale-like foliage and naturally conical shape, this long-lived evergreen provides year-round color, screening, and protection from wind and snow.
In Northeastern Iowa and throughout Eastern Iowa, American Arborvitae has proven to be one of the most dependable windbreak trees available. Its hardy nature, heavy foliage, and ability to thrive in a variety of soil conditions make it a favorite for shelterbelts, farmsteads, privacy screens, and wildlife plantings. The dense branches extend close to the ground, creating an effective barrier against wind while providing valuable cover for birds and wildlife.
American Arborvitae grows best in moist, well-drained soils with full sun but will also tolerate partial shade. It adapts well to many soil types and offers excellent tolerance to both black walnut juglone and salt, making it suitable for a wide range of landscape situations.
As a native species, American Arborvitae can become a substantial evergreen with proper growing conditions. Its graceful form, dependable hardiness, and low-maintenance nature make it an excellent choice for both residential and rural landscapes.
- Mature Height: 40–50 feet
- Mature Width: 12–24 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Shape: Conical
- Sun Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
- Foliage Color: Bright green
- Fall Color: Evergreen
- Soil Preference: Moist, well-drained soil; adaptable to a variety of soil types
- Hardiness Zone: 3–7
- Black Walnut Tolerance: Yes
- Salt Tolerance: Yes
Planting Recommendations
American Arborvitae performs best when provided with adequate spacing and moisture, especially during establishment.
- Privacy Screen: 8–12 feet apart
- Windbreak: 10–14 feet apart
- Specimen Planting: Allow 15–20 feet of clearance from nearby structures or large trees
American Arborvitae is an excellent choice for windbreaks, privacy screens, wildlife habitat, and evergreen landscaping. Its dense foliage, adaptability, and proven performance in Iowa’s climate make it one of the most reliable evergreen trees for long-term landscape value