Rheingold Arborvitae Thuja occidentalis 'Rheingold'
ABOUT
The 'Rheingold' is a cultivar of the Northern white cedar, distinguished by its unique foliage and vibrant colors. This evergreen shrub is noted for its exceptional foliage that exhibits a dazzling transformation throughout the seasons. In spring, the soft, feathery leaves emerge in a bright, golden hue that commands attention in the landscape. As the seasons progress, the foliage takes on a deeper golden-orange tone, which provides a warm, inviting contrast to the often cool greens prevalent in gardens. The leaves are scale-like, closely hugging the plant’s branches, and are arranged in a somewhat overlapping pattern that gives the plant a textured, lush appearance. The foliage has a fan-like shape, creating a dense and compact form that contributes to the plant's overall rounded, mounding shape. The 'Rheingold' also produces small, inconspicuous cones, but these are rarely the focal point, as the plant is primarily grown for its ornamental foliage. The plant's rich coloration and fine texture make it a favorite among gardeners who wish to add year-round interest to their gardens without relying on blooming flowers. It’s a versatile shrub that can serve as a specimen plant, be a part of a hedge or border, or even feature in a mass planting for a striking color effect.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Cupressaceae.
Synonyms
Rheingold Eastern Arborvitae, Rheingold American Arborvitae, Rheingold Northern White Cedar, Rheingold White Cedar.
Common names
Thuja occidentalis 'Rheingold'.
ToxicityTo humans
The most common common name of Thuja occidentalis 'Rheingold' is Northern White Cedar or simply Arborvitae. Toxicity to humans is generally considered to be low, but it can vary from person to person. Some individuals may be sensitive to compounds found in this plant, especially thujone, which is present in the foliage. Ingesting parts of the Arborvitae can potentially cause stomach upsets, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and in more severe cases, muscle spasms or seizures. It's important to note that the level of toxicity and resultant symptoms can highly vary, and the essential oils are more toxic than the foliage. Handling the plant may cause skin irritation in some people.
To pets
In pets, the Northern White Cedar or Arborvitae, can be toxic, especially if consumed in large quantities. The toxic compounds, primarily thujone, can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, there might be signs of neurological distress, including muscle tremors, seizures, and ataxia. While it's more common for pets to experience gastrointestinal upset, pet owners should be aware of the potential for more serious symptoms, particularly in animals that ingest a substantial amount of the plant. If a pet is suspected of ingesting Arborvitae, contacting a veterinarian immediately is advisable.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Golden
Height
3-5 feet (0.91-1.52 meters)
Spread
3-4 feet (0.91-1.22 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
3-7
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: The Thuja occidentalis 'Rheingold', commonly known as the 'Rheingold' arborvitae, has a distinctive golden foliage that adds aesthetic value to landscapes.
- Year-Round Interest: This evergreen maintains its foliage throughout the year, providing consistent color and texture in gardens.
- Compact Size: With its small stature, this variety is suitable for smaller gardens or spaces where a full-sized tree would be too large.
- Low Maintenance: 'Rheingold' arborvitae requires minimal care once established, making it an easy plant for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Versatile Landscaping: It can be used for a variety of landscaping purposes such as hedges, screens, specimen plants, or topiary elements.
- Wildlife Habitat: Provides shelter and nesting sites for birds, contributing to local biodiversity.
- Adaptability: This plant adapts well to a range of soil conditions and climates, though it prefers moist, well-drained soil and full to partial sun.
- Privacy Screen: The dense foliage can serve as a privacy screen, blocking unwanted views and reducing noise pollution.
- Soil Erosion Control: As a perennial with a robust root system, it can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
- Windbreak: The thick foliage and branching habit make it an effective windbreak, protecting areas from strong winds.
- Winter Color: The foliage often takes on a bronze hue in winter, providing visual interest in the colder months.
Medical Properties- Expectorant - Northern white cedar has been used traditionally to help expel phlegm.
- Diuretic - It is considered to promote the increased production of urine.
- Stimulant - The plant has been noted for stimulating effects on the body.
- Emmenagogue - It might have properties that stimulate menstrual flow.
- Astringent - Northern white cedar may be used to contract skin tissues and reduce bleeding from minor abrasions.
- Antirheumatic - Traditionally, it was used to treat rheumatic conditions.
- Warts - The essential oil derived from the plant has been applied to skin for wart removal.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Woodworking: The wood of the arborvitae is lightweight and resists decay, making it suitable for small woodworking projects such as boxes, bowls, and decorative artifacts.
- Horticultural art: Skilled gardeners can train and trim arborvitae into various topiary shapes to enhance landscape designs.
- Natural fencing: Due to its dense growth habit, the arborvitae can be planted in rows to create a living fence that provides privacy and wind protection.
- Wildlife shelter: The dense foliage offers a safe haven for birds and small mammals to nest and take refuge from predators.
- Erosion control: With its robust root system, the arborvitae can help stabilize soil on slopes, reducing erosion.
- Sound Barrier: The dense canopy can help to dampen traffic noise when planted along roads or property lines.
- Cultural significance: Some cultures use arborvitae in traditional ceremonies or plant them in sacred spaces for their symbolic value.
- Photography: The unique golden foliage of the 'Rheingold' variety can provide a stunning backdrop or subject for nature photographers.
- Climate adaptation research: Scientists may use 'Rheingold' to study climate resilience in plants, due to its tolerance of different growing conditions.
- Education: Arborvitae like 'Rheingold' can be used in educational programs to demonstrate pruning techniques and discuss plant growth habits.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Arborvitae is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Arborvitae is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Everlasting Life: The Thuja Occidentalis, commonly known as the Arborvitae or 'Tree of Life', is often associated with immortality and eternal life due to its evergreen nature, retaining its foliage throughout the seasons.
- Protection: Arborvitae has been traditionally planted in gardens or used in hedges, symbolizing a shield or barrier, which reflects its role in providing privacy and protection.
- Resilience: Its ability to withstand cold climates and harsh conditions symbolizes strength and resilience, often reflecting the human capacity to persevere through challenges.
- Health: As the Arborvitae produces essential oils known for therapeutic properties, it symbolizes health and healing, representing the restorative power of nature.
- Privacy: Arborvitae is commonly used for creating living fences, symbolizing the value of seclusion, introspection, and the right to personal space.
WaterFor the American Arborvitae, frequent watering is particularly important during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. Water the plant deeply and thoroughly once or twice a week, providing about 2 gallons per watering for small to medium plants. Adjust the frequency depending on weather conditions and soil moisture, reducing watering in cooler months. A good rule of thumb is to ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. During extreme heat or drought, increase watering frequency to prevent stress.
LightAmerican Arborvitae thrives best in full sun to partial shade. Situating the plant where it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily is ideal. The plant can tolerate light shade, but too much shade can lead to sparse foliage and a less robust form.
TemperatureThe American Arborvitae grows best in a temperature range of 40°F to 80°F, and can withstand temperatures down to about -30°F to -40°F once established. The optimum growth temperatures are generally between 50°F and 75°F, with protection from extreme heat or cold recommended to maintain plant health.
PruningPruning the American Arborvitae is often done to shape the plant or maintain its size, and it should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Prune sparingly, as the plant does not respond well to heavy cutting back. Remove any damaged or diseased branches as needed to maintain the health and appearance of the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the American arborvitae 'Rheingold' is well-draining with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0. A mix of loamy soil, peat moss, and coarse sand or perlite is ideal to ensure proper drainage and aeration.
RepottingThe American arborvitae 'Rheingold' generally does not need frequent repotting and can often remain in the same pot for several years. It should be repotted when the root system outgrows the container, which may be every 3 to 5 years.
Humidity & MistingThe American arborvitae 'Rheingold' prefers average to high humidity levels. Outdoor plants are usually satisfied with the natural humidity, but indoor conditions should be kept moderately humid without creating excess moisture that could lead to fungal issues.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, avoid direct sun, and provide room to grow.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade with moist soil.
Hardiness zone
2-7 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the 'Rheingold' Eastern arborvitae, or Thuja occidentalis 'Rheingold', begins with germination from seed, which typically occurs in the spring following stratification to break dormancy. The seedling stage follows, where the young plant establishes roots and begins to grow foliage; this species is known for its golden-yellow to copper foliage in youth. As it matures into the juvenile stage, it develops into a dense, compact shrub with a rounded to conical shape, a distinctive feature of this cultivar. Reaching maturity, the plant will start to produce small, inconspicuous cones that are pollinated primarily by the wind. Over the years, it will enter a period of stable growth where it continues to produce foliage and seeds, and can live for several decades if the conditions are favorable. Finally, as it enters the senescence phase towards the end of its life cycle, growth slows and the plant may begin to show signs of decline before eventually dying.
PropogationPropogation time
Early spring
The most popular method of propagating Thuja occidentalis 'Rheingold', commonly known as the Rheingold Arborvitae, is through semi-hardwood cuttings. This is typically done in late summer. A cutting of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) is taken from a healthy, semi-mature branch of the plant. It's essential to remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder to facilitate root growth. The cutting is then planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept under high humidity and indirect light until roots develop, which can take several weeks. Once rooted, the young plants can be gradually acclimated to less controlled conditions before being transplanted outdoors.
![Lawson's cypress [Ellwood's Pillar]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fplants-admin.emdemapps.com%2Fimages%2Fplants%2F%2Fimages%2F604b5d48a28a6.png&w=640&q=75)
