The main culprits are various fungal diseases that spread quickly and often cause irreversible damage. On top of that, longer, hotter summers and extreme weather linked to climate change are making life harder for these evergreens once thought nearly indestructible.
If you feel it’s time to say farewell to your thuja but still want a lush green hedge or a garden that looks great in winter, we’ve got some fantastic alternatives for you to try!
Arizona Cypress – Your Mediterranean Vibe Ambassador
This fast-growing, cone-shaped ornamental tree thrives even in hot, dry summers, making it a smart pick for gardens sensitive to climate change. Growing up to 20-25 meters (65-82 feet), its striking, silvery-blue foliage adds year-round character to your yard—just remember, it really gets big!
While young plants can be frost-sensitive, planting it in a sheltered spot helps it thrive. It’s rarely bothered by pests, making it a relatively low-maintenance choice.
Virginia Juniper – A Natural, Bird-Friendly Alternative
This evergreen from North America comes in many forms—from slender, columnar types to sprawling bushes. Its bluish berry-like cones not only look beautiful but also attract birds who love to snack on them.
It handles poor, dry soils well, so it’s worth trying even if other plants have struggled in your garden. The only occasional issue is rust fungus, but it’s rare.
Balkan Cherry Laurel – For a Dense, Impenetrable Hedge
This cherry laurel impresses with lush, shiny leaves, white spring flowers, and colorful berries. Growing 2.5-5 meters (8-16 feet) tall, it provides excellent coverage, making it a top pick for hedges.
It’s not picky about soil and tolerates frost well, though younger plants benefit from leaf mulch protection in winter. Keep in mind, its berries are toxic to humans and it’s considered invasive, so careful management is essential.
Winter Daphne – Blooming Beauty in the Bare Months
For a striking shrub that shines in winter, winter daphne is a fantastic choice! Its snow-white, star-shaped flowers can appear as early as late December and often stay in bud until spring.
Its lightly fragrant flowers and metallic-blue berries make it a beloved ornamental plant. It tolerates sheltered, semi-shady spots well. Since its berries are mildly toxic and don’t always develop, the flowers are its true highlight.
Fragrant Shrub – A Stunning and Scented Delight
This evergreen from East Asia is not only beautiful but also fragrant: tiny white flowers bloom in autumn, filling your garden with a sweet perfume. Its holly-like leaves are especially decorative on young plants, mellowing as they age.
Variegated types with yellow or cream-edged leaves stay attractive year-round. Slightly frost-sensitive, it’s best planted in a sheltered spot and is a great fit for smaller gardens.
Leyland Cypress – When You Want Fast Results
This lightning-fast growing hybrid cypress is perfect if you need quick coverage. It can grow up to 90 centimeters (35 inches) a year, letting you create a dense, impenetrable green wall in just a few years.
That speed means it needs regular trimming to keep its shape. The good news? Leyland cypress isn’t fussy and tolerates many soil types, though it can be prone to shoot dieback, so keep an eye on its health.
Whichever alternative you choose, always consider your garden’s conditions—light, soil type, and how much time you can dedicate to care. Thuja’s time seems to be fading here, but green gardens are here to stay—just with fresh, new options!
