Thuja occidentalis 'Golden Tuffet' 
Overall Description
Golden Tuffet Arborvitae is a dwarf Thuja selection that was reportedly discovered as a branch sport from T. occidentalis 'Rheingold'. Growth habit is somewhat squatty, almost puts you in mind of a mushroom in overall shape. Grows wider than taller. Foliage is very dense, and has an almost braided appearance. The tips eventually nod, or curve downward.......giving the entire mature plant the appearance of a pillow, or pincushion at times. Coloration is very light green at the base, changing over to a rich golden yellow color on the outer portions of the plant. Color display is best in locations with good sun exposure and a brief period of shade or filtered sun. Winter coloration is more of a dark bronze / gold......almost orange-ish.
Very easy to grow - virtually maintenance free. Responds very well to trimming & pruning if necessary to maintain at different heights & widths. Uses include foreground plantings, low growing hedges, or lower brightly colored accents. A wonderful little Arborvitae variety that is quite hard to come by.
Plant Facts & Specifications
Mature Height: 2-3 ft
Mature Width: 3-4 ft.
Growth rate: Slow to moderate ( 3"- 6" avg per yr )
Hardiness Zones: 4-8 ( if unsure of your zone, please use zone finder below )
Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Preference: Average to slightly sandy - well drained
Foliage Color & Texture: Very soft, delicate textured foliage that has a braided, almost twisted cordlike appearance. Color is bright lime green on the interior & base, changing over to a brilliant golden yellow on the exterior. Some winter bronzing will occur in colder climates, which gives the plant a darker gold / bronze color......almost coppery or dark orange.
Flower, Cone, Or Berry Facts: None to mention
Diseases / Insects: No common serious threats to this variety, however can never rule out an occasional bagworm.
Fertilization / Feeding: Either water soluble ( Miracle Gro, or equivalent ), or granular ( Holly Tone is excellent ). Other granular types with 6-12-12, or 10-10-10 ratio is acceptable. Best to fertilize in early spring, and again in mid fall - avoid feeding during hot summer months, and directly after transplanting.
