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Description
Platycladus Orientalis Aurea Nana, also known as Dwarf Golden Arborvitae, is a small, slow-growing evergreen shrub that belongs to the Cupressaceae family. It is native to China, Korea, and Japan and is widely cultivated in gardens and parks.This plant has a compact, conical shape and can grow up to 3-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide. It has golden yellow foliage that turns bronze in winter, adding color to the garden. The leaves are scale-like and arranged in flattened sprays. The bark is reddish-brown and peels off in thin strips.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Cupressaceae |
| Genus | Platycladus |
Appearance
Dwarf Golden Arborvitae has a striking appearance that makes it stand out among other plants in the garden. Its golden yellow foliage is bright and eye-catching, making it an excellent accent plant. The leaves are soft and pliable, and they emit a pleasant aroma when crushed.As the plant ages, the foliage turns bronze in winter, adding warmth to the garden. The bark is reddish-brown and has a peeling texture, adding texture to the plant’s appearance.
Care Guide
Dwarf Golden Arborvitae is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to take care of it:- Water: Water regularly, especially during the first year after planting. After that, the plant can tolerate drought conditions.- Fertilization: Fertilize once a year in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer.- Soil: Plant in well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.- Sunlight: Plant in full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Hardy in zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dwarf Golden Arborvitae is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be prone to spider mites, aphids, and bagworms. To prevent these pests, keep the plant healthy and well-watered. If necessary, treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Dwarf Golden Arborvitae is native to China, Korea, and Japan, where it grows in mountainous areas. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought conditions. In gardens and parks, it is often used as a specimen plant or as a low hedge.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Dwarf Golden Arborvitae a fast-growing plant?
A: No, it is a slow-growing plant that can take several years to reach its full height.
Q: Can Dwarf Golden Arborvitae tolerate full sun?
A: Yes, it can tolerate full sun to partial shade.
Q: Does Dwarf Golden Arborvitae require pruning?
A: No, it does not require pruning, but you can trim it if you want to maintain its shape.
Q: Is Dwarf Golden Arborvitae deer-resistant?
A: Yes, it is deer-resistant.
Related Plants
– Platycladus Orientalis (Eastern Arborvitae)- Thuja Occidentalis (American Arborvitae)- Juniperus Chinensis (Chinese Juniper)- Taxus Baccata (English Yew)- Pinus Mugo (Mugo Pine)
References
– “Platycladus Orientalis Aurea Nana.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org.- “Dwarf Golden Arborvitae (Platycladus Orientalis ‘Aurea Nana’).” Garden Design, www.gardendesign.com.
