WSU Clark County Extension
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Elegantissima Oriental Arborvitae

Scientific name: Platycladus orientalis 'Elegantissima'
Taxonomy
Family:Cupressaceae
Type:Evergreen shrubs
Native:NO
Plant Requirements
Zone:6 to 9
Sun:Full to partial sun
Plant Characteristics
Height:15 ft
Width:10 ft
Additional Characteristics
Trees


Fruit

Leaves


Bark
Wildlife value

Poisonous
Description Of the different Oriental Arborvitae cultivars available, ‘Elegantissima’ is the most popular. It can be recognized by its yellow new foliage which ages to yellow-green before turning bronze during the winter.

  Morphology:
This evergreen shrub grows to 15’ in height and 10’ in width at maturity. Younger plants have a conical shape while older plants will open up more. The branches hold the foliage in vertical planes arranged around the central core. The leaves have over-lapping scales and come tightly packed on the shoots.

The bark is rusty-brown and fibrous.
Multiple plants could be arranged to form a hedge.

  Adaptation:
Prefers dry winters, shelter from wind and a free draining site. While it prefers full sun, it can withstand some shade. Contact with the foliage of arborvitaes may cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals.

  Pests:
Healthy, well-maintained plants sited in proper growing environments usually have few major problems.
For assistance, contact Dr. Charles Brun (brunc@wsu.edu), (360) 397-6060 5701
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