Thuja Fire Chief Arborvitae

SKU: 96

$34.99

Thuja ‘Fire Chief’ is a compact arborvitae with soft green foliage that turns brilliant orange-red in fall and winter, adding bold seasonal color to small gardens.

Product Category

Fire Chief™ Globe Arborvitae

Thuja occidentalis 'Congabe' PP #19,009

Thuja ‘Fire Chief’ Arborvitae is a standout dwarf evergreen prized for its dramatic seasonal color and tidy, rounded form. During spring and summer, its soft, feathery foliage appears bright green, gradually transforming into glowing shades of orange, red, and burgundy as temperatures cool. This color shift brings eye-catching interest to the landscape when many plants fade, making it a valuable addition to year-round garden designs.

Naturally compact and slow-growing, Fire Chief Arborvitae is ideal for smaller spaces, foundation plantings, borders, and container gardens. It requires very little pruning to maintain its shape and fits well into both formal and informal landscapes. Hardy and adaptable, this arborvitae tolerates cold climates while maintaining excellent color and structure. Its dense foliage also provides texture and contrast when paired with flowering perennials or other evergreens.

Care Instructions

Planting:
Plant in full sun to partial shade for best color. Allow adequate spacing for mature width.

Watering:
Water regularly during the first growing season. Once established, provide moderate, consistent moisture.

Pruning:
Minimal pruning needed. Remove only dead or stray branches in early spring if desired.

Pest Control:
Generally pest-resistant, though spider mites may appear in hot, dry conditions.

Soil Tips:
Prefers moist, well-draining soil. Avoid poorly drained or constantly wet sites.

Plant TypeConifers, Shrubs
Hardiness Zone(s)5, 6, 7, 8, 9
ExposureFull Sun, Partial Sun
Season of InterestSpring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Plant Height2' - 4' (ft)
Plant Spread2' - 4' (ft)
Spacing3' - 4' (ft)
Water NeedsAverage
Maintenance LevelLow
Soil TypeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil PHNeutral, Acidic, Alkaline
Soil DrainageMoist but Well Drained
Bloom ColorOrange, Green
Foliage ColorGreen, Orange
CharacteristicsShowy, Evergreen
TolerancesClay Soil, Wet Soil
AttractsBirds
Garden UsesHedges and Screens, Patio and Containers, Ponds and Streams

Plant Calculator


Square Planting Pattern

diagram-sq
Plants Needed:
Based on # Sq. Ft.:
Plants Centered On:

Triangular Planting Pattern

diagram-tri
Plants Needed:
Based on # Sq. Ft.:
Plants Centered On:

Note: Actual plants needed may vary slightly.