Oriental Arborvitae 'Aurea Nana' is a compact, dense shrub that brings year-round structure to the garden with its fine-textured, scale-like foliage in yellowish-green tones that deepen with age and often bronze beautifully in winter. This cultivar is notably more restrained than the species, reaching 2 to 5 feet tall and 2 to 4 feet wide, making it far more practical for residential landscapes than its tree-form cousins. Hardy in zones 6 through 9, though sources suggest it may struggle in the coldest parts of zone 5, this shrub thrives in full sun to partial shade and asks only for moderate water and maintenance once established. Its dense, conical form and tolerance for shelter make it a natural choice for hedges and screens.
Partial Sun
Moderate
6-9
60in H x 48in W
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Moderate
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The 'Aurea Nana' cultivar stays compact and shrubby, a major departure from the species which can tower to 18 to 25 feet, making it far more useful in typical gardens. Young foliage opens in yellowish-green flattened sprays, gradually deepening to a richer green and often taking on bronze winter tones that add visual interest through the cold months. Its dense, columnar habit and moderate size requirements mean less pruning headache compared to other evergreens, while still delivering the structured presence gardeners crave for hedging and foundation plantings.
Oriental Arborvitae 'Aurea Nana' serves primarily as a landscape hedge or screen, its dense branching and columnar form creating living walls and privacy barriers in residential gardens. The compact size makes it suitable for smaller properties where full-height arborvitae would overwhelm the space.
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Minimal pruning is required for 'Aurea Nana' compared to larger arborvitae forms. The cultivar's naturally dense, compact habit means it holds shape well without heavy intervention. Remove any dead or damaged branches promptly to maintain appearance and encourage good air circulation, which helps prevent pest and disease issues.
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