Thujopsis dolabrata 'Variegata' is a large, fast-growing, tree form of hiba arborvitae with species-typical form and branching, and attractive creamy white variegation that is fairly stable. The variegation and reduced chlorophyll results in slightly slower growth when compared with the species. After 10 years of growth, a mature specimen will measure 6 feet (2 m) tall and 4.5 feet (1.5 m) wide, an annual growth rate of 6 to 8 inches (15 - 20 cm).
According to Arthur Jacobson in North American Landscape Trees, "extremely rare in North America; at least so in the maritime Pacific Northwest. Branchlets partly cream- or white-variegated. Much prone to reverting to nearly all green. Record: 52' x 2'5" Seattle, WA (1987)."
This cultivar originated long ago in Japan. The first plants were imported to Holland in 1859, by P.F. von Siebold, and to England in 1861, by Robert Fortune in 1861.
