Oriental thuja ‘Franky Boy’ 20/40cm (3L)

Oriental Thuja ‘Franky Boy’ – Platycladus orientalis is a compact evergreen conifer with a distinctive upright habit and dense, golden-yellow foliage that brings year-round colour to gardens. This cultivar forms a neat, columnar shape with flattened sprays of scale-like leaves that stand vertically, creating an architectural presence in borders, rockeries, and container displays. The bright foliage emerges lime-green in spring, maturing to rich golden tones throughout summer and developing attractive bronze highlights during winter months.

This versatile conifer thrives in full sun positions where its golden colouration intensifies, though it tolerates partial shade. The compact growth habit makes ‘Franky Boy’ particularly suitable for smaller gardens, courtyard plantings, and mixed borders where space is limited. Its formal appearance works beautifully as a specimen plant, whilst multiple plants can create effective low hedging or structural accents alongside perennials and ornamental grasses.

The textured foliage provides excellent contrast against darker evergreens and flowering shrubs throughout the seasons. Unlike many conifers, Oriental thuja develops attractive reddish-brown bark that becomes more prominent with age, adding further ornamental value. The plant maintains its dense branching naturally without requiring regular pruning, making it a low-maintenance choice for busy gardeners.

Care Guide

Oriental Thuja ‘Franky Boy’ performs best in well-drained soil with reasonable fertility. It adapts to most soil types including chalk and clay, provided drainage is adequate. Before planting, incorporate organic matter to improve soil structure and moisture retention. Choose a position in full sun for the most vibrant golden colouration, though the plant tolerates partial shade where colours may appear slightly softer.

Water newly planted specimens regularly during their first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, Oriental thuja demonstrates good drought tolerance, though benefits from watering during prolonged dry periods in summer. Container-grown plants require more frequent watering, particularly during warmer months.

Apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser in early spring to support healthy growth and maintain foliage colour. A mulch of well-rotted compost or bark chippings around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds whilst gradually improving soil quality.

Pruning is rarely necessary as the plant naturally maintains its compact form. If required, light trimming can be carried out in late spring or early summer, removing no more than one-third of the current season’s growth. Avoid cutting into old wood as this may not regenerate.

The plant shows good resistance to common pests and diseases. Ensure adequate spacing between plants to promote air circulation, which helps prevent fungal issues. In exposed positions, young plants may benefit from shelter during their first winter until fully established.

Oriental thuja tolerates urban pollution and coastal conditions reasonably well, making it adaptable to various garden situations. Container specimens should be repotted every two to three years using quality compost with added grit for drainage.

Ultimate height
2.5–4 metres

Time to ultimate height
10–20 years

Ultimate spread
1–1.5 metres