Thuja occidentalis (American Arborvitae) is a popular, versatile, and dense evergreen conifer, ideal for privacy screens and hedges, commonly reaching 20-30 feet tall in cultivation. Popular varieties like Emerald Green grow slowly 6-12 inches per year, while Techny grows at a moderate rate, and Green Giant is fast-growing 3+feet annually. They prefer full sun to partial shade and thrive in moist, well-drained soil.