Fire Chief™ Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Congabe’) is a compact, globe-shaped evergreen that grows 3-5 foot high and wide (in 10 years) (USDA hardiness zones 5-8). It is at its best in full to partial sunlight. Its soft scale-like foliage changes color seasonally. New spring growth emerges orangey-red, turns bright green in summer, and develops a russet-red blush in fall and winter. When planted on a sheltered or shady site, the leaves retain a bright green color year-round.

Its scaly leaves resist burning from harsh summer sun and the frigid winds of winter better than many globe arborvitaes. Branches are flexible and rarely break under a snow load. This super hardy evergreen thrives in containers through the coldest Tennessee winter. Its compact size makes this evergreen shrub an ideal choice for small gardens.

One year after planting, Fire Chief is moderately drought tolerant and requires very little maintenance. Disease and insect problems are rare, although deer may occasionally browse on the foliage.

At local garden centers Fire Chief™ is available as a container-grown shrub from spring thru early fall. This outstanding cultivar performs well in an average well-drained, moderately acidic soil. Before planting enrich the soil with compost and mulch. It is rated as moderately drought tolerant after one year.

Spring pruning is rarely needed except to remove a broken branch or for shaping. Annually feed the shrub with either 10-10-10 or an equivalent granular fertilizer in late winter.

Fire Chief™ arborvitae is grown for its compact globe conifer seasonal accent foliage shrub in a container or a garden setting.