Russian arborvitae
Microbiota decussata
RHS AGM 1993
USDA zones3 to 7
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterHandles moderate to moist soil
Size6 to 18 inches tall3 to 12 feet wide
- Growth rate
- Moderate
- Habit
- Spreading
- Bloom color
- Non-flowering
- Foliage color
- Green
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, clay, chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Notes
Russian arborvitae (Microbiota decussata) is a shrub for borders, rock gardens, ground cover, and winter interest. It is hardy to USDA zone 3, or down to -40°F (-40°C). This plant likes full or part sun and average to moist soil of most types. It is not a favorite of deer, though hungry deer will eat almost anything. It stays green all year with a low, spreading habit, and it does not flower.
Pairs well with White Feather hosta, Miss Kim lilac, Blonde Ambition blue grama, and Carlton daffodil.
Native range
Primorye.