How to Care for Platycladus orientalis (Oriental Arborvitae)

Korean name: 측백나무

Platycladus orientalis is an evergreen conifer with soft, scale-like leaves that grow densely. It typically grows 10 to 20 meters tall and features upright branches. It is drought and cold tolerant, making it a popular ornamental tree.

Key facts

• Category: Garden tree & shrub
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Where to keep: outdoors
• Native to: East Asia
• Growth rate: Moderate
• Pets: Mildly toxic, so keep pets from chewing on it.
• Traits: cold hardy, evergreen, ornamental tree, beginner friendly
• Also known as: Oriental Arborvitae, Chinese Thuja

Care Guide

• Light: Prefers bright locations with direct sunlight.
• Watering: Water thoroughly when the topsoil is dry.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained soil.
• Humidity: Thrives in typical indoor humidity levels.
• Temperature: Tolerates temperatures from -20 to 35°C.
• Fertilizer: Apply slow-release fertilizer in spring and autumn.

Common questions

How often should you water Platycladus orientalis?

Water thoroughly when the topsoil is dry. Roughly every 7 days is the baseline; adjust for the season and the spot it sits in.

Where should you keep Platycladus orientalis?

It likes Prefers bright locations with direct sunlight.. You can grow it outdoors. Use Prefers well-drained soil..

Is Platycladus orientalis safe around pets?

Mildly toxic, so keep pets from chewing on it.

Is Platycladus orientalis good for beginners?

Difficulty: Moderate. Keep it around Tolerates temperatures from -20 to 35°C.. Humidity: Thrives in typical indoor humidity levels.. Fertilise Apply slow-release fertilizer in spring and autumn..