Also known as Arbor-Vitae · Biota · Chinese Arbor Vitae
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Platycladus orientalis, or Oriental Arbor-Vitae, is a hardy, evergreen conifer from northeastern Asia. It has flattened, scale-like green foliage, often bronzing in winte
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade
70% intensity
Moderate, drought-tolerant once established
50% intensity
Well-drained, adaptable, prefers slightly acidic to neutral
50% intensity
Highly hardy, tolerates wide range
80% intensity
Outdoor
50% intensity
Low, only if needed for poor growth
30% intensity
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains thujone and other compounds that can cause gastrointestinal upset and skin irritation if ingested or handled extensively. Essential oils are more concentrated and toxic.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Young plants need consistent moisture to establish. Established plants are drought-tolerant but benefit from deep watering during prolonged dry periods, especially in hot climates.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. Reduce watering significantly in winter.
Minimal pruning is typically needed. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches as soon as they are noticed. Light shaping can be performed in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
Avoid heavy pruning into old, leafless wood, as it may not regenerate.
Commonly propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer or early autumn. Cuttings should be 10-15 cm long, treated with rooting hormone, and placed in a well-draining medium under high humidity.
Seed propagation is also possible but generally slower and less common for specific cultivars.
Not applicable for mature outdoor trees planted in the ground. For container-grown specimens, repot every 2-3 years in early spring to a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix.
Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Chinese Arborvitae (Platycladus orientalis)
Where Chinese Arborvitae (Platycladus orientalis) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Cupressaceae |
| Genus | Platycladus |
| Species | Platycladus orientalis |
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
