If you’ve been browsing your local nursery for privacy trees, you’ve definitely run into the Thuja Brabant and the Thuja Smaragd (often called Emerald Green Arborvitae). While the Smaragd is a fan favorite for its looks, the Brabant is actually the tougher cousin and usually the better pick for a solid hedge.
What’s the Real Difference Between Thuja Brabant and Smaragd?
Both of these “Trees of Life” are hardy, frost-resistant, and pretty low-maintenance. That said, the Smaragd is just a tiny bit more high-maintenance than the Brabant. To help you pick the right one for your yard, let’s break down what makes each one unique.
All About the Thuja Brabant
With its light green foliage, the Thuja Brabant might not look quite as “fancy” as the Smaragd, but don’t let that fool you. When it’s pruned into a neat shape or grown as a hedge, it looks fantastic. Here’s why gardeners love it:
- Super hardy and resilient
- Easier on the wallet
- Very low failure rate after planting
- Dense, thick growth
- Wide growth habit
- Tight planting distance (only about 16 inches apart)
- The absolute best choice for a privacy hedge
All About the Thuja Smaragd (Emerald Green)
Most people think the Thuja Smaragd is the “beauty” of the family. It’s famous for its shimmering dark green needles and elegant, narrow shape. Here are its main traits:
- A bit more sensitive, though still generally hardy
- More expensive to buy
- Can be a little finicky when first planted
- Doesn’t create a 100% solid wall of green
- Slim, conical growth habit
- Needs more breathing room; planting distance should be about 32 inches
- Perfect as a standalone focal point or in a large pot
Pro tip: Don’t crowd your Smaragds! If you plant them too close together, they can’t “breathe,” which often leads to the tree dying off. Sticking to the recommended spacing from day one will save you a lot of headaches (and dead trees) later.
Which Thuja Should You Choose?
At the end of the day, both varieties have their perks. If your goal is to grow a thick, “don’t-look-at-me” privacy hedge as fast as possible, the Thuja Brabant is your winner. It’s reliable and fills in beautifully. On the other hand, if you want a stylish accent tree for your patio or a decorative cone for your garden beds, go with the Thuja Smaragd. Just keep in mind it won’t give you total privacy like the Brabant will.