Thuja plicata 'Grune Kugel' (Grune Kugel Arborvitae)

Grune Kugel Arborvitae is a dense multi-stemmed evergreen shrub with a shapely oval form. Its relatively fine texture sets it apart from other landscape plants with less refined foliage.

This is a relatively low maintenance shrub. When pruning is necessary, it is recommended to only trim back the new growth of the current season, other than to remove any dieback. It has no significant negative characteristics.

Grune Kugel Arborvitae is a dwarf conifer which is primarily valued in the landscape or garden for its decidedly oval form. It has dark green evergreen foliage. The scale-like sprays of foliage turn an outstanding plum purple in the fall, which persists throughout the winter.

Grune Kugel Arborvitae will grow to be about 4 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 4 feet. It tends to fill out right to the ground and therefore doesn't necessarily require facer plants in front. It grows at a slow rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for 50 years or more.

This shrub does best in full sun to partial shade. It prefers to grow in average to moist conditions, and shouldn't be allowed to dry out. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution, and will benefit from being planted in a relatively sheltered location. Consider applying a thick mulch around the root zone in winter to protect it in exposed locations or colder microclimates. This is a selection of a native North American species.