Thuja 'Green Giant' Growth Rate and Fast-Growing Alternatives for Minnesota

Clarifying Arborvitae Growth Claims

Homeowner in Minnesota questions if Thuja 'Green Giant' really grows 3–5 feet/year as advertised, after being told arborvitae are slow (12–24 inches).

Realistic Expectations

• Green Giant (Thuja plicata): Fastest arborvitae, but 2–3 feet/year is typical, not 3–5.
• Standard Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis): 12–24 inches/year.

Faster Alternatives for Privacy

• Butterfly Bush (Buddleia) – very fast, deciduous.
• Leyland Cypress – fast evergreen, but borderline hardy in MN.
• White Pines – fast, native, evergreen.

Selection Advice

Visit a local nursery for regionally proven varieties. Consider hardiness, mature size, and maintenance. Green Giant is excellent but not magic.