Fire Chief™ Arborvitae
Fire Chief™ Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Congabe’) is a striking, compact evergreen shrub known for its eye-catching, year-round color. This globe-shaped arborvitae features vibrant, feathery foliage that changes with the seasons, transitioning from bright green in spring to a rich golden-orange hue in fall, which deepens to a stunning red in winter. Growing to a height and spread of 3 to 4 feet, Fire Chief™ Arborvitae is perfect for adding texture and color to smaller garden spaces, foundation plantings, or as a border accent. Its natural globe shape requires minimal pruning, making it a low-maintenance choice for those seeking an attractive and easy-care addition to the landscape.
Fire Chief™ Arborvitae thrives in USDA hardiness zones 5 through 8, preferring full sun to partial shade. This adaptable shrub grows well in a variety of soil types as long as the soil is well-drained. Its slow to moderate growth rate ensures that it maintains its rounded form, providing year-round structure and interest to mixed borders, rock gardens, or container plantings. With its naturally compact size and unique coloration, Fire Chief™ Arborvitae works well in both formal and informal garden designs, adding a bright focal point or providing contrast against other green foliage. Its year-round color transition makes it a standout choice for those looking to introduce dynamic, seasonal interest to their garden.
In addition to its aesthetic qualities, Fire Chief™ Arborvitae is deer-resistant, making it an excellent choice for gardeners in areas with heavy deer activity. Once established, this hardy shrub also demonstrates good drought tolerance, further contributing to its low-maintenance appeal. For best results, water Fire Chief™ Arborvitae regularly during the first growing season to help establish a deep root system. Then, apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Whether planted in mass, as a low hedge, or as a specimen plant, Fire Chief™ Arborvitae delivers year-round beauty, vibrant color, and easy care, making it an exceptional addition to any landscape.
Fire Chief Arborvitae and Thuja Fire Chief refer to the same plant, officially known as Thuja occidentalis ‘Congabe.’ These names are often used interchangeably in the horticultural world to describe this compact, globe-shaped evergreen shrub known for its vibrant, year-round color. Regardless of the name used, both refer to the same cultivar that offers stunning seasonal foliage transitions, from bright green in spring to a fiery red in winter, making it a popular choice for various landscape applications.
