Pet Safe
moderate Care
American arborvitae
Thuja occidentalis 'Sherwood Frost'
The American arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis 'Sherwood Frost') is a coniferous, evergreen plant with a unique "turtle-back" form and bold, bright yellow foliage. It reaches heights of up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide, and its lush foliage provides the perfect backdrop for garden beds and borders. Easy to care for, it is both drought and deer tolerant and will thrive in full sun to partial shade. The speedy growth rate of the 'Sherwood Frost' makes it an ideal screen plant over a fence or wall for added privacy. Plus, its unique color will bring a pop of cheeriness to any outdoor space.
Sunlight
Partial Shade
Water Needs
high
USDA Hardiness Zones
Zone 2Zone 3Zone 4Zone 5Zone 6Zone 7
Hardiness Map
Green areas show climates worldwide where this plant can grow.
Zone 2Zone 3Zone 4Zone 5Zone 6Zone 7
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Water Every
"7-10" days
Sun Needs
partial-shade
Growth
Moderate
Care Level
Low
Watering Schedule
Frequency
Day 1"7-10" daysDay NaN
💧 Water every "7-10" days
Seasonal Adjustments
Adjust watering frequency based on temperature, humidity, and season. Water more frequently in summer and less in winter.
Pro Tip: Check soil moisture before watering. Stick your finger 1-2 inches into the soil—if it's dry, it's time to water!
Season
Fall
Sep Oct Nov
Winter
Dec Jan Feb
Spring
Mar Apr May
Summer
Jun Jul Aug
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
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Starts Flowering
Starts Flowering
Starts Flowering
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Pruning Time
Flowering
How to Propagate
Greenwood Cuttings
Take 4-6" cuttings in spring, root in water or moist soil
Greenwood Cuttings
Take 4-6" cuttings in spring, root in water or moist soil
Hardwood Cuttings
Take 4-6" cuttings in spring, root in water or moist soil
Plant Characteristics
Drought Tolerant
Is This Plant Right for You?
Good For:
- •Forgetful waterers
- •Homes with pets
- •Low-maintenance gardens
Consider Carefully:
- •Indoor growing
Bloom Seasons
spring
Care Tips
Light Requirements
Enjoys dappled or limited direct sun—about 2–4 hours of morning or late afternoon light and protection during peak midday sun.
Watering
Requires frequent watering to maintain moist soil. Don't let the soil dry out completely.
Best Planting Time
Plant in early spring or fall for best results. Blooms in spring.