When searching for the best lollipop evergreen shrubs, it’s essential to find options that combine striking shape with reliable growth. The Thuja occidentalis ‘Smargd’ Emerald Green Arborvitae stands out as the overall top pick for its vibrant color and dense form, perfect for creating a bold, uniform look. The Proven Winners Anna’s Magic Ball offers a more compact, low-maintenance alternative that excels in small gardens, while the North Pole Arborvitae provides a resilient choice for colder climates. Each of these options balances visual appeal with ease of care, but tradeoffs exist: larger plants may take longer to establish, and some varieties require specific soil conditions. Keep reading for a full breakdown of these top selections and how to choose your perfect lollipop shrub.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked Emerald Green Arborvitae offers vibrant color and dense growth, making it ideal for a striking hedge or focal point.
- Size and mature height vary significantly; smaller varieties like Tater Tot are easier for tight spaces but may need more frequent pruning.
- Cold-hardy options like North Pole excel in colder zones but can be more susceptible to winter burn if not properly protected.
- Price and container sizes differ; larger plants deliver immediate impact but at a higher cost, while smaller pots are budget-friendly for quick planting.
- Maintenance needs are generally low, but selecting the right variety depends on climate, soil, and intended landscape role.
| Thuja occidentalis ‘Smargd’ Emerald Green Arborvitae – Live Plant, #3 Container |  | Best Overall for Privacy and Space Efficiency | Plant Type: Evergreen Tree | Scientific Name: Thuja occidentalis ‘Smargd’ | Container Size: #3 (3-Gallon) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Proven Winners 2 Gal. Anna’s Magic Ball Arborvitae Shrub |  | Best for Small Spaces and Container Gardening | USDA Zones: 3a-8b | Mature Size: 3-4 feet W x 2-3 feet H | Botanical Name: Thuja occidentalis ‘Anna van Vloten’ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Proven Winners North Pole Arborvitae, Live Evergreen Shrub, 3 Gallon |  | Best for Year-Round Privacy and Easy Maintenance | Plant Type: Evergreen Shrub | Size: 3 Gallon | Mature Height: 15 feet | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Proven Winners 2 Gal. Tater Tot Arborvitae Shrub |  | Best for Natural Look and Year-Round Interest | USDA Zones: 3a-8b | Mature Size: 3-4 ft W x 2-3 ft H | Shipping Height: 10-14 inches | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Planet Earth Arborvitae, 1 Gallon, Dense Evergreen Shrub |  | Best for Shaping and Climate Versatility | Container Size: 1 gallon | Plant Type: Evergreen shrub | Growth Habit: Round, dense | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brighter Blooms Emerald Green Arborvitae, 1-2 Feet – Live Plant |  | Best for Versatile Landscaping and Privacy in Small Spaces | Expected Plant Height: 15 feet | Soil Type: Sandy Soil | Moisture Needs: Moderate Watering | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 10 Emerald Green Arborvitae in 2.5 inch pots, 6-12 inches tall |  | Best for Budget-Conscious Gardeners Starting Small | Quantity: 10 plants | Pot Size: 2.5 inches | Height at Shipping: 6-15 inches | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| lollipop evergreen shrub | USDA Zones |
|---|---|
| Thuja occidentalis ‘Smargd’ Em | 3-8 |
| Proven Winners 2 Gal. Anna’s M | 3a-8b |
| Proven Winners North Pole Arbo | 3-8 |
| Proven Winners 2 Gal. Tater To | 3a-8b |
| Planet Earth Arborvitae | — |
| Brighter Blooms Emerald Green | — |
| 10 Emerald Green Arborvitae in | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Thuja occidentalis ‘Smargd’ Emerald Green Arborvitae – Live Plant, #3 Container
This Thuja occidentalis ‘Smargd’ stands out for its classic upright form and vibrant emerald foliage, making it a versatile choice for privacy screens or landscape accents. Compared with the smaller Tater Tot or Anna’s Magic Ball, this variety offers greater height, reaching up to 20 feet, which is ideal for creating tall hedges. Its narrow growth habit allows it to fit into tighter spaces where broader shrubs might not work, but it does require enough room to reach full height, and its growth rate isn’t specified—meaning it might take several seasons to fully mature. Regular pruning can help maintain its shape, especially in smaller landscapes. This pick makes the most sense for homeowners seeking a tall, narrow evergreen that can double as a privacy barrier without demanding extensive space or maintenance.
Pros:- Fully rooted and ready to plant upon arrival
- Tall, narrow growth ideal for limited spaces
- Adaptable to full sun or partial shade
Cons:- Requires space to reach full height of 18-20 ft
- Growth rate not specified, could be slow
Best for: Homeowners wanting a tall, narrow evergreen for privacy screens or landscape accents in medium to large yards
Not ideal for: Gardeners with limited space or those preferring slow-growing, low-maintenance plants, as it may require pruning and space to reach full height
- Plant Type:Evergreen Tree
- Scientific Name:Thuja occidentalis ‘Smargd’
- Container Size:#3 (3-Gallon)
- Mature Height:18-20 ft
- Mature Width:5-6 ft
- USDA Zones:3-8
Our verdict“This evergreen is best suited for those seeking a tall, narrow privacy hedge with minimal space requirements once mature.”
Proven Winners 2 Gal. Anna’s Magic Ball Arborvitae Shrub
Anna’s Magic Ball offers a compact, rounded shape that makes it ideal for small gardens or container planting. Unlike the taller ‘Smargd’, this shrub stays within 2-3 feet high and 3-4 feet wide, making it a perfect accent or border plant. Its versatility in USDA zones 3a-8b means it can thrive in a wide range of climates, but it prefers full sun to partial shade, similar to ‘North Pole’. While its smaller size is convenient, it may require regular pruning to keep its shape, especially in containers or tight spaces. This option makes the most sense for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, decorative shrub that can be easily integrated into smaller landscapes or patios, though it may not provide the privacy screening of taller varieties.
Pros:- Suitable for a wide range of USDA zones
- Compact size perfect for containers and small landscapes
- Versatile as an accent or hedge
Cons:- Requires full sun to partial shade
- Limited information on drought tolerance
Best for: Gardeners with limited space or those seeking a manageable, decorative evergreen for containers or small borders
Not ideal for: People wanting tall privacy screens or quick-growth hedges, as this shrub remains modest in size and may need frequent shaping
- USDA Zones:3a-8b
- Mature Size:3-4 feet W x 2-3 feet H
- Botanical Name:Thuja occidentalis ‘Anna van Vloten’
Our verdict“This shrub is excellent for small gardens or container setups, offering a tidy, low-maintenance evergreen presence.”
Proven Winners North Pole Arborvitae, Live Evergreen Shrub, 3 Gallon
The North Pole Arborvitae is a reliable choice for those needing a narrow, upright evergreen with low maintenance needs. Its dark green foliage remains attractive year-round, contrasting with broader, more sprawling varieties like the Tater Tot. This shrub’s upright growth and mature height of 15 feet make it suitable for creating privacy screens without requiring frequent pruning—an advantage over more maintenance-intensive options. However, shipping restrictions to certain states limit its availability, and it’s best suited for USDA zones 3-8. Compared to the larger ‘Smargd’, North Pole is more manageable for smaller landscapes, but it won’t reach the same towering height, limiting its privacy potential if a tall hedge is desired.
Pros:- Narrow, upright growth habit ideal for small spaces
- Low maintenance with no pruning needed
- Year-round attractive foliage
Cons:- Limited shipping options due to restrictions
- Cannot grow taller than 15 feet in typical landscapes
Best for: Homeowners in USDA zones 3-8 seeking a low-maintenance, upright evergreen for privacy or foundation plantings
Not ideal for: Gardeners outside zones 3-8 or those wanting a shrub with a more expansive, spreading habit, as it is narrow and upright
- Plant Type:Evergreen Shrub
- Size:3 Gallon
- Mature Height:15 feet
- Mature Width:5 feet
- USDA Zones:3-8
Our verdict“This shrub is perfect for low-maintenance privacy screens in zones 3-8, especially where space is limited.”
Proven Winners 2 Gal. Tater Tot Arborvitae Shrub
Designed for those who want a compact, dense evergreen with a natural, rounded shape, Tater Tot excels in providing year-round greenery. Its mature size of 3-4 feet wide and 2-3 feet high makes it suitable for borders or small hedges, but unlike the taller ‘Smargd’ or ‘North Pole’, it offers less privacy impact. Its shipping height of 10-14 inches means it’s quite young at arrival, which could delay its full landscaping effect. While it thrives in USDA zones 3a-8b and offers a resilient, disease-resistant foliage, it’s best suited for those looking for a decorative, low-maintenance shrub rather than a privacy screen. Its dense, rounded habit makes it aesthetically pleasing but less functional for tall privacy needs.
Pros:- Evergreen foliage provides year-round interest
- Suitable for USDA zones 3a-8b
- Compact, dense habit ideal for borders
Cons:- May require full sun for optimal growth
- Limited shipping height may delay full landscape integration
Best for: Homeowners seeking a natural-looking, dense evergreen for borders or small landscapes in USDA zones 3-8
Not ideal for: Those expecting immediate privacy or taller hedges, since it starts small and takes time to reach full size
- USDA Zones:3a-8b
- Mature Size:3-4 ft W x 2-3 ft H
- Shipping Height:10-14 inches
Our verdict“This shrub suits gardeners wanting a natural, low-maintenance evergreen for decorative borders rather than tall privacy screens.”
Planet Earth Arborvitae, 1 Gallon, Dense Evergreen Shrub
This dense, round arborvitae from Planet Earth is a solid choice for those who want an easy-care shrub that maintains its shape naturally. It’s particularly suited for foundation plantings or hedges where shaping isn’t a priority, thanks to its self-maintaining form. Its disease resistance and cold hardiness make it well-suited for diverse climates, especially when compared to the more upright North Pole, which is better for privacy screens. However, being only in a 1-gallon container limits its immediate impact, and it may require transplanting or patience as it grows. This shrub is ideal for gardeners who prioritize low effort and adaptability, but it’s less suitable if a tall or highly structured hedge is needed right away.
Pros:- Maintains shape without shearing
- Cold hardy and disease resistant
- Suitable for various climates
Cons:- Limited to container size, may need transplanting
- Slower to reach full height and width
Best for: Landscape designers or homeowners wanting a versatile, easy-to-maintain shrub for foundation or mixed plantings
Not ideal for: Those seeking instant privacy or tall hedges, as it is compact and needs time to develop its full size
- Container Size:1 gallon
- Plant Type:Evergreen shrub
- Growth Habit:Round, dense
- Hardiness:Cold hardy
- Disease Resistance:Passalora/Cercospora needle blight resistant
Our verdict“This shrub is best for those who want a hardy, shape-retaining evergreen that fits into low-maintenance landscape designs.”
Brighter Blooms Emerald Green Arborvitae, 1-2 Feet – Live Plant
This mature Emerald Green Arborvitae excels as a low-maintenance, adaptable hedge, making it ideal for gardeners who want an easy, attractive privacy screen without extensive pruning. Compared to the smaller starter plants in the lineup, such as the 10 Emerald Green Arborvitae in 2.5-inch pots, this option offers a more immediate, full effect for small gardens or tight spaces. Its ability to thrive in various soil types and weather conditions means less fuss and fewer concerns about site-specific challenges. However, its limited height potential if not fully grown and restrictions on shipping to certain states might constrain some buyers’ plans. The plant requires moderate watering to maintain lushness, but once established, it’s highly drought tolerant and virtually hassle-free.
Pros:- Low-maintenance and hassle-free
- Adapts well to various soil and weather conditions
- Ideal for privacy screens and small-space landscaping
Cons:- Limited height potential if not fully grown
- Cannot be shipped to some states (AK, AZ, HI, OR)
- Requires moderate watering for optimal health
Best for: Homeowners seeking a mature, low-maintenance privacy hedge in small or urban gardens
Not ideal for: Buyers with large acreage expecting quick, tall privacy screens, or those in restricted shipping zones like AK, AZ, HI, OR
- Expected Plant Height:15 feet
- Soil Type:Sandy Soil
- Moisture Needs:Moderate Watering
- Light Exposure:Full Sun, Partial Shade
- Expected Blooming Period:Year Round
- Expected Planting Period:Winter
Our verdict“This mature arborvitae is perfect for gardeners wanting an instant privacy hedge in small spaces, provided shipping restrictions are acceptable.”
10 Emerald Green Arborvitae in 2.5 inch pots, 6-12 inches tall
This set of small starter arborvitae offers an affordable way to begin landscaping projects, especially for those who want to watch their plants grow from the ground up. Compared with the mature plant, such as the Brighter Blooms Emerald Green Arborvitae, these young plants require patience and time to reach their full 8-12 foot height, but they provide a cost-effective solution for larger installations or new gardens. Their small size at shipping (6-15 inches) means they need careful handling and consistent care to establish, but they are highly drought tolerant and thrive in full sun, making them suitable for various climates. Including a growing guide, this pick is suited to confident DIYers willing to invest time into nurturing their landscape.
Pros:- Affordable starter plants for landscaping
- Full sun and drought tolerant
- Includes a helpful growing guide
Cons:- Shipped small, requiring patience to reach full size
- Limited size at shipping (6-15 inches)
- Requires ongoing care and time to mature
Best for: Budget-conscious gardeners or landscapers starting new projects who want to grow their own privacy hedge
Not ideal for: People needing immediate privacy or quick results, or those in need of mature plants for instant impact
- Quantity:10 plants
- Pot Size:2.5 inches
- Height at Shipping:6-15 inches
- Expected Mature Height:8-12 feet
- Sunlight:Full Sun
- Drought Tolerance:Yes
Our verdict“This set of young arborvitae is a smart choice for DIYers willing to nurture their landscape for long-term privacy gains, with the understanding that growth takes time.”
How We Picked
These shrubs were selected based on a combination of growth habit, visual appeal, adaptability, and overall value. Priority was given to plants that maintain a true lollipop shape with dense foliage, ensuring a uniform, rounded top. We also considered customer reviews for reliability and ease of care, as well as compatibility with various climates. The ranking reflects a balance between size, price, and ease of growth, aiming to help both novice and experienced gardeners find suitable options. Special attention was paid to varieties that excel in maintaining their shape with minimal pruning, making them ideal for a clean, modern landscape.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Lollipop Evergreen Shrubs
Choosing the best lollipop evergreen shrub involves more than just appearance. Consider factors like climate suitability, mature size, soil requirements, and maintenance needs. Understanding these aspects can prevent common mistakes such as selecting plants that outgrow their space or struggle in your zone, saving time and money in the long run.Climate and Hardiness Zones
Always check the plant’s recommended hardiness zone to ensure it can withstand your local winters and summers. Some varieties, like North Pole, are tailored for colder climates, while others may need winter protection in cooler zones. Matching the shrub to your climate reduces the risk of disease and winter damage, ensuring long-term success.
Size and Growth Rate
Consider the mature height and width of the shrub, especially if space is limited. Fast-growing varieties may quickly fill your space but require regular pruning to maintain shape, whereas slower growers like Anna’s Magic Ball are easier to manage but take longer to reach full size. Think about your landscape goals and maintenance capacity before choosing.
Soil and Site Conditions
Most evergreen shrubs prefer well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Poor drainage can lead to root rot, so amend your soil if necessary. Also, consider sun exposure; while many tolerate full sun, some varieties prefer partial shade, which can influence their overall health and vigor.
Aesthetic and Shape Maintenance
While these shrubs are marketed for their lollipop shape, some may require more pruning to maintain their round top. Selecting a variety known for its natural symmetry can reduce maintenance effort. Also, consider how the shrub will look in different seasons—some may keep their color year-round, adding consistent visual interest.
Budget and Container Size
Larger plants offer immediate impact but come at a higher price and may be less adaptable to small gardens. Smaller containers are more affordable and easier to plant, but the plant will take longer to reach your desired size. Balance your budget with your timeline and landscape needs to make the best choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast do lollipop evergreen shrubs grow?
Growth rates for lollipop evergreen shrubs vary depending on the variety. Most grow between 6 to 12 inches per year, with some faster-growing options reaching full size in a few years. If you want quick results, larger, more established plants are available at a premium, but patience with smaller plants can pay off as they develop over time.
Are these shrubs suitable for small gardens or containers?
Many of these shrubs, like Tater Tot and Anna’s Magic Ball, are perfect for small spaces and containers due to their compact size. They can be easily shaped and maintained in limited space, making them ideal for patios, entryways, or small landscape beds. Just ensure the container has good drainage and sufficient space for root growth.
Which variety is best for colder climates?
The North Pole Arborvitae is specifically bred for cold hardiness, thriving in zones 3-7. It resists winter burn better than some warmer-climate varieties. However, even cold-hardy selections benefit from winter protection like burlap wraps in harsh zones, especially during severe winters.
Do these shrubs require a lot of pruning to stay shaped?
Most lollipop-shaped evergreens are naturally symmetrical and require minimal pruning to maintain their form. Regular light trimming after growth peaks helps sustain their shape without stress. Over-pruning can damage the plant, so choosing a variety that is naturally well-shaped reduces the effort needed to keep it looking tidy.
What should I consider regarding soil and watering needs?
These shrubs prefer well-drained soils and moderate watering. Overly wet soil can cause root rot, while too little water can lead to browning or stunted growth. Mulching helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, especially in extreme weather. Adjust watering based on your local climate and seasonal conditions for best results.
