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Hiba Arborvitae 'Jurassic Park' (Thujopsis dolobrata 'Jurassic park') — reference photo

Conifer Trees / evergreens · Other Families

Hiba Arborvitae 'Jurassic Park'

Thujopsis dolobrata 'Jurassic park'

In USDA zones 7b–8a around Raleigh, Durham, and Cary, Hiba Arborvitae 'Jurassic Park' is a evergreen used in Triangle yards when mature size, sun, and drainage fit the bed. Piedmont clay rewards a wide planting hole, a slightly high crown, and steady first-season water. Fall planting is the usual window here; water through the first summer no matter the calendar.

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Key facts for the Triangle

Botanical name
Thujopsis dolobrata 'Jurassic park'
Common name
Hiba Arborvitae 'Jurassic Park'
Plant type
Conifer Trees / evergreens
Group
Other Families
Hardiness here
USDA 7b–8a (Raleigh–Durham Triangle)
Light
Match the site; confirm hours of direct sun
Water
Deep, consistent water while establishing
Soil
Well-drained
Leaf habit
Evergreen
Best planting window
Fall (October–November) in the Piedmont; spring after frost as backup

Overview

Thujopsis is a genus of conifers in the cypress family (Cupressaceae), the sole member of which is Thujopsis dolabrata.

It is a reliable choice for wildlife-friendly plantings in the Triangle. Between the clay soil and humid summers, this conifers / evergreen stands out for its notable foliage and overall landscape durability.

At a glance

Wildlife

  • Songbird value

Foliage & season

  • Notable foliage
  • Evergreen

Best landscape uses

Best landscape uses

  • wildlife-friendly plantings

Growing & care

Practical notes for establishment and seasonal care in the Triangle—adjust for local soil tests and microclimate.

Light

Full sun is generally required to maintain a dense habit and the best needle color in our region.

Watering Procedure

Water at the base until the root zone is saturated (usually 45-60 seconds for new plants). Check the top inch of soil; if dry, it's time to water again.

Planting & Soil

In our heavy Raleigh clay, this is a great performer if you prep the soil well. Dig your hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper. Mix 30% compost with your native clay backfill to open up the soil—this helps the roots breathe and prevents water from pooling. Planting 'slightly high' also ensures the roots stay healthy.

Fertilization

Fertilize sparingly if at all. A light spring application is usually enough; over-fertilizing evergreens in our humidity can lead to weak, leggy growth.

Pruning / upkeep

Prune lightly to maintain structural shape; avoid cutting into old, leafless wood on needle evergreens like Junipers or Cedars.

Common questions

Is Hiba Arborvitae 'Jurassic Park' a good plant for Raleigh and the Triangle?

Yes—when the site matches its light and drainage needs. Hiba Arborvitae 'Jurassic Park' is used in Raleigh, Durham, and Cary landscapes in USDA zones 7b–8a. Confirm mature width, overhead wires, and how wet the Piedmont clay stays after storms before you plant.

When should I plant Hiba Arborvitae 'Jurassic Park' in North Carolina?

Fall (October–November) is the safest window for Hiba Arborvitae 'Jurassic Park' in the Piedmont: soil is still warm, air is cooler, and roots can grow before summer. Spring after the last frost works if you can water deeply through the first hot season.

Will Hiba Arborvitae 'Jurassic Park' grow in Piedmont clay?

It can, with careful planting: wide hole, crown slightly above grade, and no water sitting on the root flare. Heavy, poorly drained clay is the usual failure mode—not summer heat alone.

Does Hiba Arborvitae 'Jurassic Park' lose its leaves in winter?

No. Hiba Arborvitae 'Jurassic Park' is evergreen and keeps foliage year-round, which is why it is used for winter structure and screening in Triangle yards.

Reference context includes Wikipedia (“Thujopsis”), licensed under CC BY-SA.