The green giant arborvitae is a fast growing pyramidal evergreen. True to its name, this arborvitae can exceed heights of 50′. The dense foliage provides cover for songbirds and is resistant to browsing by deer. Green giant arborvitae are an excellent choice for a natural windbreak or privacy screen on larger estates.

Hardiness Zones: 5-7

Sun Preference: Full Sun, Partial Sun

Soil Types: Tolerates a wide range of soils. Avoid exposure to salt and wet poorly drained soil.

Size: Height 50-60′, Width 12-20′

Growth Rate: More than 24″ per year, once established.

The eastern red cedar is a pyramidal evergreen that grows at a moderate rate. This “cedar” is actually a juniper which produces a small bluish-green fruit, a favorite forage of the Cedar Waxwing. Frequently used in natural windbreaks or privacy screens, this hardy native tolerates wind, salt and extreme cold.

Hardiness Zones: 2-9

Sun Preference: Full Sun

Soil Type: Thrives in a wide range of soils. Prefers alkaline soil that is moist, but well drained. Tolerant of salt, drought and occasional flooding.

Size: Height 40-50′, Width 8-20′

Growth Rate: 12-24″ per year

The black hills spruce is a native to the Black Hills region of South Dakota. This pyramidal evergreen is frequently used as ornamental specimens in residential landscapes. The dense foliage provides good winter cover for songbirds. Slower growth rate is perfect for smaller spaces.

Hardiness Zones: 3-5

Sun Preference: Full Sun, Partial Sun

Soil Type: Prefers moist acidic soils such as sandy loams, but tolerates a wide range of conditions. Resistant to salt and drought conditions.

Size: Height 20-40′, Width 10-15′

Growth Rate: <12″ per year

The Norway spruce is a large pyramidal conifer with dense pendulous branches. Produces purplish-green cylindrical cones, which turn light brown as they mature. Native to northern and central Europe. Provides an excellent windbreak on larger estates.

Hardiness Zones: 3-7

Sun Preference: Full Sun, Partial Sun

Soil Type: Prefers moist acidic soils that are well drained.

Size: Height 40-60′, Width 25-30′

Growth Rate: 12-24″ per year

The tamarack is a native pyramidal conifer which grows rapidly, once established. This deciduous conifer changes with the seasons. In the spring, soft blue-green foliage emerges. During the summer it produce small reddish-purple cones, which turn brown as they mature. In the fall, the needles turn a spectacular golden hue. Each winter, the tamarack loses its needles. This species can provide a dynamic screen for southern facing locations, where winter sunlight is desired.

Hardiness Zones: 2-5

Sun Preference: Full Sun

Soil Type: Prefers wet or moist soil. Tolerates occasional flooding. Sensitive to sustained flooding, drought and pollution.

Size: Height 40-80′, Width 30-50′

Growth Rate: 12-24″ per year