THUJA OCCIDENTALIS SUNKIST / SUNKIST CEDAR

THUJA OCCIDENTALIS ‘SUNKIST’ / SUNKIST CEDAR

A Bright, Golden-Hued Evergreen for Year-Round Interest
Thuja occidentalis ‘Sunkist,’ commonly known as Sunkist Cedar, is a vibrant, golden-hued evergreen that brings warmth and color to the landscape. With its soft, aromatic foliage and striking yellow-gold appearance, this cultivar of Western Cedar is a standout choice for gardens, borders, or foundation plantings. Its compact form and year-round color make it an excellent option for creating a visually appealing focal point.

Why Choose Sunkist Cedar?

Comparison: Sunkist Cedar offers a unique, golden foliage color that sets it apart from other varieties of Thuja. While traditional Western Cedars have darker green foliage, ‘Sunkist’ retains its bright yellow-gold hue throughout the year, especially in full sun. Its compact size makes it ideal for smaller gardens or as an accent plant.

Companions: Pairs beautifully with other colorful evergreens like Blue Spruce or Juniper, which contrast nicely with its golden tones. It also complements flowering plants such as Daylilies or Roses, adding structure and year-round interest to mixed borders or garden beds.

Key Features:

• Golden Foliage: Features bright yellow-gold foliage that holds its color throughout the year, adding a warm, sunny touch to the landscape.
• Compact Form: Grows in a dense, upright form, making it perfect for small gardens, containers, or as a border plant.
• Soft, Aromatic Foliage: The soft needles release a pleasant aroma, making it a delightful addition to any garden or landscape.
• Cold-Hardy & Resilient: Thrives in a variety of soil conditions and is hardy in colder climates, making it a great choice for USDA zones 3–7.
• Low Maintenance: Requires little care once established, making it an excellent low-maintenance evergreen for busy gardeners.

Specifications:

• Mature Height: 1.2–1.5 m tall
• Mature Width: 0.6–1 m wide
• Growth Rate: Slow (5–10 cm per year)
• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Hardiness: Zone 3–7

Sunkist Cedar is the perfect choice for gardeners seeking a bright, compact evergreen that adds color and texture to their landscape. Its golden foliage, pleasant aroma, and low-maintenance nature make it an excellent addition to small gardens, borders, or containers, providing year-round beauty and interest.