Unlike the towering 'Green Giant', emerald green only grows up to 12 inches each year after reaching maturity, reaching a height of 15 feet and a width of 4 feet.

Green Giant arborvitae grows very fast; it is one of the fastest-growing conifers. Adding 3 to 5 feet per year, a mature tree reaches more than 50 in height and a width of 5 feet in 10 years.

Perhaps the most popular variety is the emerald green arborvitae (T. occidentalis ‘Smargd’). Growing 12 to 15 feet tall, it is a staple screening shrub in many residential landscapes.

Q: I have a row of 12 'Emerald Green' arborvitae planted along the perimeter of my property. This is the third year for them. Up until now, they were doing very well. This year they all put on 6 ...

Space trees 3 to 4 feet apart. Some cultivars of arborvitae will turn a washed-out brown in winter, though the most ubiquitous ‘Emerald Green’ doesn’t have that characteristic.

I've opted for Emerald Green American arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis 'Emerald') that grows nicely in large containers. I found a great end-of-season bargain on these shrubs and couldn't resist.