Microbiota decussata
Russian Arborvitae

Family:

Cupressaceae (Cypress Family) 98

Genus:

Microbiota (Carpet Juniper Juniper, Carpet Siberian Cypress Cypress, Siberian) 2

Plant Type:

Shrub 468

Growth Forms:

Prostrate / Creeping / Mat-Forming 24

Hardiness:

USDA Zone 3 231

Deciduous / Evergreen:

Evergreen 262

Foliage Notes:

Green (Evergreen that sometimes has a bronze to purple cast in the colder months)

Fruit Notes:

Brown (Not ornamentally important)

Ultimate Height:

1 feet

Ultimate Spread:

3-12 feet

Light Requirements:

Soil Notes:

Prefers moist, well-drained soil, but is fairly adaptable

Range:

Russia

Diagnostic Characteristics:

Flattened sprays of branches, similar to Thuja, but the shoot tips droop. The softly and finely textured leaves are generally scale-like (although more needle-like in shade or on younger plants).

Special Characteristics:

Pest and/or Disease Resistant 96

Tolerant of Poor Site Conditions 187

Notable Texture 282

Additional Information

The Russian Arborvitae is a low spreading, groundcover conifer that was discovered in Russia in 1921. It is generally easy to grow and can be a good substitute for Juniper in part shade situations, although it is best in full sun. This plant is not tolerant of extreme heat. Seeds of this plant can remain in a dormant state for up to 28 months.