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Proven Winners®

Polar Gold® Arborvitae

Name: Polar Gold® Arborvitae
Brand: Proven Winners
SKU: 23296E
Price: 26.49 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.7 (20 reviews)

Thuja occidentalis 'Polar Gold'

Hardy in zones 3-8, this native arborvitae thrives in full sun to partial shade with excellent cold tolerance down to zone 3
Vibrant golden foliage emerges bright yellow in spring and holds its cheerful glow throughout every season, even in winter
Space-saving narrow pyramidal form grows 12-15 feet tall by 4-6 feet wide, perfect for tight property lines and small yards
Naturally dense growth habit requires little to no pruning and shows improved resistance to windburn compared to other cultivars

$26⁴⁹

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Plant Size

Quart Container

Product variants

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics	Cold hardy, Evergreen, Compact/Dwarf, Hedge/Screen, Low Maintenance, Native, Attracts pollinators, Flowering, Fragrant, Drought resistant
Hardiness Zone	3a to 7b
Sunlight	Full sun, Partial shade
Height	12-15 ft
Width	4-6 ft
Preferred Soil	Clay, Loamy
Growth Rate	Moderate
Growth Habit	Bushy, Upright
Flower Color	Green
Foliage Color	Green
Fragrant	Yes
Suitable Space	Outdoors
Plant Name	Arborvitae
Botanical Name	Thuja occidentalis 'SMATO'
Species	occidentalis
Cultivar	SMATO
Class	Pinopsida, Coniferopsida
Does Not Ship To	AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

About Polar Gold® Arborvitae

Polar Gold® Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis 'SMATO') is a showstopper in the landscape, bringing radiant golden color to your garden every single day of the year. This Proven Winners® selection of native American arborvitae naturally grows as a dense, narrow pyramid of glowing foliage that emerges bright yellow in spring and holds its cheerful hue through summer, fall, and winter. While other evergreens fade to dull bronze in cold weather, Polar Gold® keeps its vibrant golden glow even in the depths of winter.

Key Features

Year-Round Golden Beauty

The real magic of this cultivar lies in its finely textured, scale-like foliage that catches and reflects light throughout the day. New growth flushes brilliant gold, creating a stunning two-toned effect against the more mature golden-green interior foliage. The dense branching habit means every inch of this plant is packed with color, creating a solid screen of gold whether you plant it singly as a specimen or in a row for privacy.

Perfect Size for Modern Landscapes

Reaching 12 to 15 feet tall and just 4 to 6 feet wide at maturity, Polar Gold® delivers maximum impact in minimal space. This narrow pyramidal form makes it ideal for tight property lines, foundation plantings, or anywhere you need vertical interest without sacrificing precious yard space. Unlike sprawling evergreens that eventually encroach on walkways and neighboring properties, this arborvitae keeps its tidy, upright shape naturally.

Tougher Than Most Golden Evergreens

As a native North American plant hardy from zones 3 through 8, Polar Gold® handles extreme cold with ease while also tolerating the heat and humidity of warmer climates once established. The foliage shows improved resistance to windburn compared to other arborvitae cultivars, staying vibrant green and gold even through harsh winter winds. This cultivar also demonstrates better shade tolerance than typical arborvitae, making it versatile enough for spots that receive morning sun and afternoon shade.

Landscape Uses

Landscape Versatility

Use Polar Gold® to create a luminous hedge or privacy screen that brings color to the landscape year-round. Plant it as a striking golden accent among darker evergreens to create dramatic contrast, or position it as a foundation plant where its glow will brighten entryways and walkways. The narrow form also works beautifully in perennial borders, adding structure and winter interest long after herbaceous plants have gone dormant. For a formal look, plant specimens in pairs to frame doorways or define garden rooms.

Wildlife Value

While deer may occasionally browse arborvitae, Polar Gold® provides important shelter for birds and small mammals throughout winter. The dense branching offers protection from predators and harsh weather, while the fragrant foliage adds aromatic interest to the garden. Native butterflies and moths also utilize the foliage as a host plant.

This cultivar brings the reliability of native American arborvitae together with the eye-catching appeal of golden foliage. Whether your landscape needs a narrow privacy screen, a foundation accent, or a specimen plant that works hard through all four seasons, Polar Gold® delivers vibrant color and easy-care performance in one space-saving package.

Explore More from Nature Hills

The Polar Gold® Arborvitae joins our collection of reliable evergreen shrubs and low maintenance plants, making it an excellent choice for year-round structure in your landscape. This compact variety works well in foundation plantings or as part of a privacy screen alongside other shrubs, and you can learn more about effective screening strategies in our guide to Best Privacy Trees and Shrubs to Plant This Spring. For ongoing care tips, check out our article on Timing for Pruning Flowering Shrubs to keep your arborvitae looking its best.

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This product has no reviews of its own. The merchant grouped it with related products, so the reviews shown are from across that group.

Excellent service!

Originally purchased two Mr Bowling Ball Arbs. They were beautiful but sadly did not survive the transplant. I ordered 2 more and received a credit for the 2 that didn't survive. Happily the new ones are doing nicely. I'm very pleased with the quality and service.

Losing the first two to transplant shock is always disappointing, and we are glad the team was able to make it right with a credit. It is great to hear the replacements are settling in well. Mr. Bowling Ball Arborvitae can be a little particular right after planting, so keeping that root zone consistently moist through the first season goes a long way. Thanks for sticking with us, Cynthia.

I received my order very well packaged

I received my order very well packaged.mr.bowling ball’s looking really good. Good service and fast, I will use them again.thanks

Mr. Bowling Ball Arborvitae ships as a compact, dense little globe, and it sounds like yours arrived in great shape ready to get established. Thanks for the kind words about packaging and service. We look forward to growing with you again. The Nature Hills Team

I just love my bowling ball bushes

It took time for them to grow 3 feet tall but it was worth it. It is are so easy to take care of them. My sons had their eyes on them for some time; so, I gave them all to them. They look so interesting in their yards. I would like to order more for my yard. They will always have a home with my family.

Hello Clara,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with your bowling ball bushes! We’re delighted to hear that their slow but steady growth has rewarded you with beautiful, easy-to-care-for plants that your whole family can enjoy. It’s heartwarming to know your sons are enjoying them in their yards; those unique shapes really do make a fascinating addition to any space!

If you’re ready to add more to your garden, we’d be happy to help you pick out additional plants that thrive under similar care or complement your current collection. Feel free to reach out if you need recommendations or planting tips for your new additions—we’re always here to support your gardening journey.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

No problems, followed directions, planted

No problems, followed directions, planted it and it has grown fine

Hi Robert,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your positive experience! We're thrilled to hear that following the directions led to a healthy, flourishing plant. Your success makes all the effort worth it!

If you ever have any questions or want tips on continuing to care for your green friend, don’t hesitate to reach out—we're here to help your garden thrive.

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

No problems, followed directions, planted

No problems, followed directions, planted it and it has grown fine

Dear Robert,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience with us! We’re delighted to hear that following the directions made your planting process smooth and that your plant is thriving. It’s always our goal to provide clear guidance to help your garden flourish.

If you ever have any questions or want tips on how to care for your plants as they continue to grow, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to support your gardening journey every step of the way!

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

I love this bush. It

I love this bush. It looks very nice in our landscape.

Hi Roann,

Thank you so much for sharing your kind words! We're delighted to hear that the bush is a lovely addition to your landscape. Healthy, vibrant plants really brighten up any outdoor space, and it’s wonderful to know this one is thriving in your garden. If you ever need tips on pruning, watering, or enhancing its appearance, just let us know—we're always here to help your plants flourish.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

The Ball

I love him; the size is perfect BUT there's quite a bit of brown that was on it when it got here and a little more since. I will cover it the end of the month to protect it during the winter and hopefully it will be ok in the spring when the cover comes off.Is this normal?

Hi Dawn,

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughtful feedback about The Ball! We’re delighted to hear you love the size and character it brings to your garden. Regarding the brown you’ve noticed, it’s fairly common for some discoloration or natural sheddings to occur, especially as plants adjust to a new environment or as the seasons change. Covering it during the winter is a great call—your protective care will absolutely help shield it from harsher weather.

If the brown areas continue or you notice any other changes, gently wiping the leaves with a damp cloth can often refresh the foliage. Also, if you have any questions about winter care or want tips on keeping it vibrant come springtime, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help ensure your garden thrives year-round!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

The Ball

Hello Dawn,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with The Ball! We’re so glad to hear you love the size and have such a connection with it. Regarding the brown spots, it’s actually quite normal for deciduous and some evergreen plants to develop some discoloration or spotting—especially after they’ve experienced shift in weather or environmental stresses. Covering it through the winter is a wonderful idea, as it helps protect your plant from chill and moisture damage. When you remove the cover in spring, pruning any browned or damaged sections will encourage healthy new growth.

If you want, we’re happy to provide some tailored care tips specific to your plant’s variety to ensure it thrives beautifully! Please feel free to reach out anytime for more guidance or questions.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

I love this bush. It

I love this bush. It looks very nice in our landscape.

Dear Roann,

Thank you so much for sharing your lovely feedback! We're thrilled to hear that the bush has found a happy spot in your landscape and that it brings beauty to your outdoor space. If you ever have questions about seasonal care or just want some tips to keep your bushes thriving, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re always here to help.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

small but mighty

This plant is a pet favorite of mine. It is virtually a perfect and trouble-free plant, as well as being a true dwarf. Good gray-green color and much tougher than it looks, even under snow. My plant grows in probably 2/3 day shade and doesn't seem to mind a bit.

Hi Bob,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with the Mr. Bowling Ball® Arborvitae! We’re delighted to hear that it’s not only a pet favorite but also tough and easy to care for, especially thriving in partial shade and holding up well through snow. That resilient gray-green color truly adds a unique charm to any space!

If you ever want to help your Arborvitae thrive even more, remember it appreciates well-drained soil and occasional watering during dry spells. Mulching around the base can also protect its roots and preserve moisture. Should you have any questions about pruning or mixing it with other shrubs for landscape design, feel free to reach out—we’re always here to help!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

small but mighty

Hi Bob,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with Mr. Bowling Ball® Arborvitae! We’re thrilled to hear that it has become a pet favorite and is thriving so well in your 2/3 day shade—it really is a “small but mighty” plant with its hardy nature and charming gray-green color. You’re right, its ability to tolerate snow and endure a variety of conditions makes it a fantastic addition to many landscapes.

If you ever want to keep it looking its best, occasional light pruning in early spring can help maintain its shape without stressing the plant. Also, ensuring well-drained soil will support its health over time. Feel free to reach out if you’d like more care tips or suggestions for companion plants that thrive in similar shaded environments. We’re always here to help you get the most from your garden favorites.

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

No pruning

I thinks the Mr. Bowling ball is a great plant mainly because I do not have to prune or fuss with it at all. Stays nice and green.

Hi Jiggs,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with the Mr. Bowling Ball® Arborvitae! We’re delighted to hear that you've found it as low-maintenance and lush as we hoped. Its neat, rounded form really makes it a standout—and it’s wonderful to know that it’s been thriving in your garden without much fuss.

If you ever want tips on complementing this evergreen or maximizing its color throughout the seasons, feel free to reach out—we’re here to help your garden flourish. Enjoy that vibrant green look for years to come!

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

No pruning

I thinks the Mr. Bowling ball is a great plant mainly because I do not have to prune or fuss with it at all. Stays nice and green.

Hello Jiggs,

Thank you so much for sharing your positive experience with the Mr. Bowling Ball® Arborvitae! We’re delighted to hear that it fits perfectly into your garden with minimal fuss — its low-maintenance, vibrant greenery really makes it a standout choice. Since you’ve found it so manageable without pruning, you might also enjoy occasional, light trim in early spring to maintain its perfect shape, but it sounds like it’s thriving beautifully as is!

If you ever want to explore companion plants that complement the Mr. Bowling Ball® or have any questions about plant care, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you keep your garden lush and enjoyable.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Perfect

I have 6 and love them, but I wish they would grow to the desired height a little faster. I've had them 3 full seasons now and they're only about 1 and 1/2 feet!

Hi Antonio,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with the Mr. Bowling Ball® Arborvitae! We’re delighted to hear you love your six plants—that’s quite the lovely collection. We appreciate your patience over these past three seasons and understand how important it is to see steady growth-reaching that desired height is definitely something every gardener hopes for.

Mr. Bowling Ball® Arborvitae is known for its naturally slow-to-moderate growth rate, and focusing on optimal conditions can encourage healthier, even if not rapid, development. To give your Arborvitaes the best chance, consistent watering (especially during dry spells), full to partial sun exposure, and well-draining soil enriched with organic matter are key. You might also consider a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for evergreens in early spring to give them a nice nutrient boost.

If you ever want more tailored advice, we’re here to help—whether in soil prep, seasonal care, or troubleshooting. Your patience and care will surely pay off with those charming green “bowling balls” shaping beautifully over time!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Perfect

I have 6 and love them, but I wish they would grow to the desired height a little faster. I've had them 3 full seasons now and they're only about 1 and 1/2 feet!

Hello Antonio,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with your Mr. Bowling Ball® Arborvitae! We’re thrilled to hear how much you love them. It’s understandable to wish they’d reach that desired height a bit faster—arborvitaes are generally slow-to-moderate growers, and three seasons averaging around 1 ½ feet is on the typical side for this variety.

To encourage steady and healthy growth, you might consider a few tips: ensure they’re planted in well-draining soil, allow them ample sunlight (full to partial sun works best), and be mindful with watering—not too much and not too little. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer early in the spring can also support robust growth. Additionally, protecting them from strong winds and harsh winter conditions can prevent growth setbacks.

If you’d like, we’re happy to help evaluate your planting conditions further or recommend fertilization schedules to potentially boost growth over coming seasons.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Very Nice Evergreen

Mr. Bowling Ball is a really nice evergreen. I love that it keeps a perfectly round shape with no pruning and the size is perfect. I planted them in front of mature holly bushes and they look great.

Hello Barbara,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful feedback about your Mr. Bowling Ball® Arborvitae! We're delighted to hear that you love its perfectly round shape and ideal size, and how beautifully it complements your mature holly bushes. It sounds like a lovely combination that will continue to thrive in your garden.

If you ever need tips on optimal watering or soil conditions to keep your Arborvitaes healthy and vibrant, please don't hesitate to reach out. Also, keeping an eye out for seasonal care like mulching or monitoring for pests can help maintain their great shape and health over time.

We truly appreciate you choosing NatureHills and sharing your gardening success with us!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Very Nice Evergreen

Mr. Bowling Ball is a really nice evergreen. I love that it keeps a perfectly round shape with no pruning and the size is perfect. I planted them in front of mature holly bushes and they look great.

Hello Barbara,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with the Mr. Bowling Ball® Arborvitae! We’re delighted to hear that its charming, naturally round shape and perfect size have made it a great complement to your mature holly bushes. It’s always rewarding to know our plants are enhancing your garden just as you envisioned.

If you ever want tips on seasonal care to keep your arrangement looking its best—such as routine watering guidelines or how to protect the evergreens through winter—please don’t hesitate to reach out. We also have a variety of planting guides and care articles available on our website that can help ensure your garden thrives year-round.

Wishing you every joy in your garden ventures!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Nice Evergreen

This is a really nice smaller size evergreen. Love that it's so much brighter than most evergreens.

Daylily...Always Evening

This is so beautiful that I just have to order one. Have admired it for a long time...

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the sunlight requirements for Polar Gold® Arborvitae?

Polar Gold® Arborvitae performs best in full sun but tolerates partial shade better than typical arborvitae varieties. It can handle morning sun with afternoon shade locations. For the most vibrant golden color year-round, plant in a spot with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.

What type of soil does Polar Gold® Arborvitae need, and does it tolerate wet or dry conditions?

Polar Gold® Arborvitae thrives in well-draining soil but adapts to various conditions once established. This hardy zones 3-8 cultivar tolerates both wet and dry spells better than most golden evergreens. Avoid constantly soggy conditions. Shop at Nature Hills for healthy specimens.

How much water does Polar Gold® Arborvitae require, especially when first planting?

Newly planted Polar Gold® Arborvitae needs consistent moisture for the first growing season to establish its root system. Water deeply 2-3 times per week, providing about 1 inch total. Once established, this hardy cultivar tolerates some drought but performs best with regular watering during dry spells.

How far apart should I plant Polar Gold® Arborvitae for a hedge or privacy screen?

Plant Polar Gold® Arborvitae 3-4 feet apart on center for a solid privacy screen. Since this cultivar stays narrow at 4-6 feet wide, closer spacing creates overlap for dense coverage. For a more open hedge, space them 5-6 feet apart and let their natural pyramidal shape shine through.

How is Polar Gold® Arborvitae shipped, and what is the return policy?

Polar Gold® Arborvitae ships as live plants in containers, ready to establish in zones 3-8. Nature Hills backs their plants with a one-year guarantee when you follow their planting guide. Check naturehills.com for current shipping options to your area.

Will Polar Gold® Arborvitae maintain its gold color year-round, or does it turn brown in winter?

Polar Gold® Arborvitae maintains its vibrant golden color throughout winter, unlike other evergreens that fade to dull bronze in cold weather. This hardy cultivar holds its cheerful hue from zones 3-8, even through harsh winter winds. Plant in morning sun locations for best color retention year-round.

Under $50	$9.99
$50 - $99.99	$14.99
$100 - $149.99	$16.99
$150 - $198.99	$24.99
$199+	FREE

Polar Gold® Arborvitae

Thuja occidentalis 'Polar Gold'

About Polar Gold® Arborvitae