Portfolio Arborvitae

About this plant

The Portfolio Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis 'American Pillar') is a horticultural triumph, celebrated for its exceptionally narrow, columnar growth habit. This selection maintains a remarkably tight form without the need for constant pruning, making it an ideal choice for properties where space is at a premium but vertical impact is desired. Its dense, rich green foliage retains its vibrant color throughout the year, providing a consistent and elegant presence in the garden. Perfect for creating privacy screens, defining property lines, or adding architectural interest, the Portfolio Arborvitae offers a refined solution for modern landscape design. Its uniform growth ensures a polished, formal look, whether planted individually as a specimen or in a linear grouping for a striking hedge. This adaptable evergreen thrives in a variety of well-drained soils and is a reliable performer in many climates. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Portfolio Arborvitae is a resilient plant, exhibiting good resistance to common pests and diseases. Its low-maintenance nature, combined with its striking upright form, makes it a valuable addition to any garden seeking year-round beauty and a touch of refined elegance.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Requires minimal pruning to maintain its columnar shape. Water regularly during dry periods, especially in its first few years. Apply a balanced evergreen fertilizer in spring if soil nutrients are poor. Protect young plants from strong winter winds.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.