How Big Do Arborvitae Trees Grow

Arborvitae trees grow to a range of sizes depending on the variety you choose.
 
Some stay small and bushy while others become towering specimens.
 
If you’re wondering how big do arborvitae trees grow, the answer spans from under 10 feet to over 200 feet tall.
 
The size of arborvitae trees varies widely because there are many different species and cultivars.
 
Understanding how big arborvitae trees grow is crucial for planning your landscape.
 
In this post, we’ll explore the mature sizes of popular arborvitae types and what influences their growth.
 
Let’s dig into the details of how big arborvitae trees get.
 
 

How Big Do Arborvitae Trees Grow?

The mature size of an arborvitae tree depends largely on its specific variety.
 
Different arborvitae trees grow at different rates and reach different heights.
 
Here are the main categories that answer how big do arborvitae trees grow.
 
 

Dwarf Arborvitae Varieties Stay Under 10 Feet

Dwarf cultivars are perfect for small gardens, foundations, or borders.
 
These arborvitae trees grow slowly and rarely exceed 10 feet in height.
 
Popular examples include Little Giant and Mr. Bowling Ball Arborvitae.
 
If you need a compact shrub, dwarf arborvitae trees grow to just 2 to 4 feet wide as well.
 
That makes them ideal for tight spaces where you want year‑round greenery.
 
 

Intermediate Arborvitae Varieties Reach 20 to 40 Feet

Many homeowners choose these medium‑sized arborvitae trees for hedges or privacy screens.
 
They grow at a moderate pace and top out around 20 to 40 feet tall.
 
The Emerald Green Arborvitae is a classic example that grows 12 to 15 feet.
 
But larger intermediates like Hetz Midget can reach about 30 feet.
 
When planning a hedge, consider how big do arborvitae trees grow in width, which is usually 10 to 15 feet.
 
 

Giant Arborvitae Varieties Can Exceed 100 Feet

If you have space, giant arborvitae trees grow into majestic specimens.
 
The Green Giant Arborvitae is a fast‑growing hybrid that can reach 60 feet in optimal conditions.
 
Some Western Red Cedar (a type of arborvitae) naturally grows over 200 feet tall in the wild.
 
These massive arborvitae trees grow best in large landscapes or as windbreaks.
 
Knowing how big do arborvitae trees grow at the giant end helps you avoid overcrowding.
 
 

Factors That Affect How Big Arborvitae Trees Grow

Even within the same variety, arborvitae trees grow differently based on several factors.
 
These elements can speed up or slow down the growth of your tree.
 
Let’s look at what influences how big do arborvitae trees get in your yard.
 
 

Sunlight and Soil Conditions

Arborvitae trees grow best in full sun, meaning at least six hours of direct light daily.
 
Too much shade causes them to become sparse and leggy.
 
Well‑draining soil is also key because waterlogged roots stunt growth.
 
Slightly acidic to neutral soil pH helps arborvitae trees grow strong and tall.
 
 

Watering and Climate

Consistent moisture during the first few years supports robust root systems.
 
Once established, most arborvitae trees grow well with moderate watering.
 
Extreme drought or prolonged heat can limit how big do arborvitae trees grow.
 
Conversely, very cold climates may slow growth for some varieties.
 
Choose a variety suited to your USDA hardiness zone for best results.
 
 

Pruning and Spacing

Pruning encourages denser growth but does not increase ultimate height.
 
If you prune the top, arborvitae trees grow more bushy rather than tall.
 
Proper spacing is critical because crowded plants compete for resources.
 
Green Giant Arborvitae, for example, should be spaced 5 to 10 feet apart for optimal growth.
 
This directly impacts how big do arborvitae trees grow in both height and width.
 
 

Common Arborvitae Varieties and Their Mature Sizes

To plan your landscape, it helps to know specific numbers for popular types.
 
Below are some favorites and exactly how big do arborvitae trees grow for each.
 
 

Emerald Green Arborvitae

This narrow, pyramidal variety grows 12 to 15 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide.
 
It remains compact, making it a top choice for privacy screens.
 
Emerald Green arborvitae trees grow at a slow to medium rate, about 1 foot per year.
 
 

Green Giant Arborvitae

One of the fastest‑growing evergreens, this hybrid can reach 50 to 60 feet tall.
 
Its width ranges from 12 to 18 feet, so give it room.
 
Green Giant arborvitae trees grow 3 to 5 feet per year under ideal conditions.
 
That makes it a champion when asking how big do arborvitae trees grow quickly.
 
 

American Arborvitae (Eastern White Cedar)

This native species typically grows 40 to 60 feet tall in the landscape.
 
In the wild, it can exceed 100 feet.
 
American arborvitae trees grow with a broad, conical habit about 10 to 15 feet wide.
 
It’s very cold hardy, tolerating zones 2 through 7.
 
 

Techny Arborvitae

Techny is a reliable cultivar that reaches 15 to 20 feet tall and 6 to 10 feet wide.
 
It’s denser than most, offering excellent screening.
 
Techny arborvitae trees grow slowly but steadily, about 6 inches per year.
 
 

So, How Big Do Arborvitae Trees Grow?

Arborvitae trees grow to a wide spectrum of sizes, from petite dwarfs to forest giants.
 
How big do arborvitae trees grow ultimately depends on the variety, care, and local conditions.
 
Dwarf types stay under 10 feet, intermediate ones reach 20 to 40 feet, and giants can top 60 feet.
 
Always check the mature dimensions before planting to avoid future issues.
 
With the right selection, your arborvitae trees grow exactly as desired for your landscape.
 
Now you have a clear answer for how big do arborvitae trees grow in any setting.