Plant care:

This native of Siberia thrives in Maine’s cold winter/cool summer conditions. It performs well in full sun or partial shade, and in well-drained soil with low to moderate fertility. Russian arborvitae is most successful when planted as a young plant, allowed to mature in the landscape.

Planting ideas:

• Use Russian arborvitae as a replacement for lawns, in areas where space is important but the groundcover will not be walked on. Set wide pieces of slate or other flat stepping stones as a path through the planting.
• Russian arborvitae is a perfect groundcover for slopes, either in full sun or partial shade. It does not tolerate wet conditions, and slopes are often dry.
• Combine Russian arborvitae with other full-sun groundcovers such as juniper and bearberry, for textural contrast.