Thuja occidentalis 'Danica' – The Compact, Globe-Shaped Evergreen for Small Gardens and Containers
Thuja occidentalis 'Danica' is a compact, globe-shaped evergreen conifer that adds a touch of elegance and structure to any garden. Known for its dense, soft green foliage and slow growth, 'Danica' is perfect for small gardens, container planting, or as part of a low-maintenance landscape. With its tidy, rounded form and minimal care requirements, it’s a great choice for gardeners looking to add year-round interest without taking up much space.
Why Grow Thuja occidentalis 'Danica'?
Compact and Rounded Form – 'Danica' maintains a neat, globe-like shape without the need for heavy pruning, making it ideal for smaller spaces or formal garden designs.
Slow-Growing – This cultivar has a slow growth rate, making it a perfect option for long-term, low-maintenance garden planting.
Year-Round Green – The rich green foliage holds its colour throughout the year, ensuring that your garden remains vibrant even in the winter months.
Versatile – It’s perfect for use in containers, rock gardens, borders, or small hedges, adding structure and form without overwhelming the space.
Cold Hardy – ‘Danica’ is a cold-hardy variety, perfect for colder climates and able to withstand harsh winters.
Height of Plant
Thuja occidentalis 'Danica' is a slow-growing, dwarf conifer that typically reaches 30–50 cm (12–20 inches) in height with a similar spread, forming a perfect globe shape. Its compact size makes it an excellent choice for small gardens, low borders, or container planting.
Where to Site Your Thuja occidentalis 'Danica'
With its small size and elegant form, 'Danica' is perfect for:
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Small gardens or tight spaces, where it won’t overcrowd other plants.
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Container planting on patios, balconies, or terraces, where it provides evergreen interest year-round.
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Rock gardens, where its tidy shape complements the natural beauty of stones and other low-growing plants.
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Borders or edging, adding a neat, evergreen element without overwhelming the space.
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Formal garden settings, providing structure and symmetry without the need for frequent pruning.
How to Grow and Care for Your Thuja occidentalis 'Danica'
Soil – Prefers well-drained, fertile soil but is adaptable to various soil types, including sandy and clay soils. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
Light – Thrives in full sun to partial shade. It will grow best in sunnier spots, but it can tolerate light shade, though it may grow a bit slower.
Watering – Regular watering is necessary during dry periods, especially when the plant is young. Once established, it is fairly drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional watering in hot, dry weather.
Maintenance:
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Pruning – Pruning is rarely needed due to its naturally compact, rounded form. Light shaping can be done in early spring if desired.
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Feeding – Apply a slow-release, balanced fertiliser in spring to encourage healthy growth, particularly if planted in poor soil.
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Mulching – Apply mulch around the base to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the roots during winter.
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Pest & Disease Resistance – Thuja 'Danica' is generally resistant to pests and diseases but may occasionally be susceptible to aphids or spider mites in dry conditions. Root rot can occur if the soil is too wet, so ensure proper drainage.
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Cold Hardy – Hardy down to -30°C or lower, making it suitable for even the coldest climates.
Perfect Plant Combinations
Thuja 'Danica' is a versatile plant that pairs beautifully with many other garden plants. Its rounded form and evergreen colour complement plants with a variety of textures and forms. Pair it with hostas, heucheras, or ferns for a woodland look, or combine it with perennials like lavender, salvia, or roses for a more structured garden. It also works well in rock gardens alongside low-growing succulents or ornamental grasses.
With its compact size, year-round greenery, and minimal care requirements, Thuja occidentalis 'Danica' is the ideal evergreen for small spaces, containers, and low-maintenance gardens. Whether used for borders, as a standalone feature, or in a decorative pot, it adds elegance and charm to any landscape.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
