Image: Arborvitae Varieties in a Multi-Use Landscape

This high-resolution landscape image captures a stunning and thoughtfully designed garden that showcases the versatility and aesthetic impact of Arborvitae (Thuja) cultivars across multiple applications. The composition is layered and immersive, offering a vibrant tapestry of textures, colors, and forms that highlight the best-performing varieties in real-world settings.

In the foreground, a curved bed of dark brown mulch hosts three dwarf globe Arborvitae, likely cultivars such as ‘Danica’ or ‘Mr. Bowling Ball’. Their foliage is dense, finely textured, and bright green, forming near-perfect spheres that contrast beautifully with the mulch and surrounding plantings. Interspersed among them are complementary species including a low-growing blue-green juniper, ornamental grasses, and a golden-yellow groundcover that adds warmth and visual rhythm.

To the left, a cluster of deep violet Salvia nemorosa rises in vertical spikes, adding seasonal color and pollinator appeal. Behind the Salvia, a golden-leaved shrub—possibly Spiraea or dwarf cypress—introduces feathery texture and a warm counterpoint to the cooler greens.

The midground features a lush, vibrant lawn that curves gently through the garden, guiding the viewer’s eye toward the structural elements. A towering ‘Green Giant’ Arborvitae anchors the scene with its broad pyramidal form and rich green foliage, serving as a privacy screen and focal point. Nearby, a slightly smaller conical Arborvitae—possibly ‘Nigra’ or ‘Techny’—adds depth and rhythm to the vertical layering.

To the right, a columnar Arborvitae such as ‘North Pole’ or ‘DeGroots Spire’ stands near the corner of a red brick house with beige siding. This specimen is used as a vertical accent in a foundation planting, flanked by a rounded boxwood shrub and a Japanese maple with burgundy-red foliage. The interplay of evergreen structure and deciduous color creates a dynamic and balanced composition.

Additional plantings include golden-leaved groundcovers, neatly trimmed hedges, and a variety of evergreen and deciduous shrubs that reinforce the garden’s seasonal interest and textural diversity. The mulch is cleanly raked and evenly distributed, and the lawn is meticulously maintained.

In the background, a mixed border of deciduous trees and additional Arborvitae varieties frames the garden. The trees vary in height and foliage tone, with some branches still bare, suggesting early summer or late spring. The sky is a soft blue with fluffy white clouds, and natural sunlight filters through the canopy, casting gentle shadows and highlighting the textures of foliage, bark, and mulch.

This image exemplifies Arborvitae’s adaptability in privacy screens, foundation plantings, accent roles, and formal garden structures. It serves as a compelling reference for landscape designers, nursery professionals, and educators seeking to illustrate the aesthetic and functional diversity of Arborvitae cultivars.

The image is related to: A Guide to the Best Arborvitae Varieties to Plant in Your Garden