Oriental Arborvitae Plant Care
Thuja orientalis L.
Platycladus is a monotypic genus of evergreen coniferous trees in the cypress family Cupressaceae, containing only one species, Platycladus orientalis, also known as Chinese thuja, Oriental arborvitae, Chinese arborvitae, biota or Oriental thuja. It is native to northeastern parts of East Asia and North Asia, but is also now naturalised as an introduced species in other regions of the Asian continent.
Every 7–14 days
Full sun to part shade
0–100°F
30–70%
What Is the Oriental Arborvitae?
Oriental Arborvitae (Thuja orientalis) belongs to the Cupressaceae family within the Thuja genus. Oriental Arborvitae is native to northeastern parts of East Asia and North Asia. Oriental Arborvitae is also known as Chinese Arborvitae, Biota, Eastern Arborvitae.
Oriental Arborvitae displays a pyramidal, columnar growth habit, reaching up to 40 inches tall with a spread of approximately 15 inches. Oriental Arborvitae produces small cones, not showy.
Leaf size: approximately 0.5 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Oriental Arborvitae?
Thuja orientalis requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–14 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Oriental Arborvitae Need?
Oriental Arborvitae thrives in full sun to part shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 1000–3000 lux. Avoid placing Oriental Arborvitae in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to part shade
1000–3000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Oriental Arborvitae Prefer?
Thuja orientalis grows best at temperatures between 0°F and 100°F. Oriental Arborvitae prefers humidity levels of 30–70%.
Temperature
0–100°F
Humidity
30–70%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Oriental Arborvitae?
Well-draining loamy soil with good aeration. Good drainage is essential for Oriental Arborvitae to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Oriental Arborvitae?
Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Oriental Arborvitae?
Oriental Arborvitae can be propagated through seeds, cuttings. Similar propagation techniques also apply to arborvitae plant care, which shares the same genus.
Fertilizing
Every 8 months
During the growing season
Is the Oriental Arborvitae Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Oriental Arborvitae?
Oriental Arborvitae is susceptible to spider mites, bagworms, scale insects. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Oriental Arborvitae Need?
Oriental Arborvitae grows outdoors in USDA Zone 6a – 11b. Native to northeastern parts of East Asia and North Asia, Oriental Arborvitae is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Oriental Arborvitae as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 6a – 11b
Keep exploring plants
Oriental Arborvitae is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Thuja genus — compare its care with other Thuja species on PlantoScan.
Oriental Arborvitae tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
More Thuja Species
Other Thuja species in PlantoScan's care catalogue share similar watering, light, and soil preferences:
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