Use Thuja plicata 'Leprechaun™' when you want the look of a lush, upright evergreen conifer without committing to the scale of a full-size western red cedar. This compact selection keeps a dense, tailored outline and carries rich green, aromatic sprays that give structure and color through every season.
Plant it where you can give it steady moisture while it establishes, then water deeply during dry stretches, especially in summer. You will get the best growth in moist, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter, but it can adapt to many garden soils as long as drainage is reasonable. Mulch the root zone to help hold moisture and keep the soil cooler, and keep mulch a few inches back from the trunk.
For best density and color, site it in full sun to part shade; afternoon shade can be helpful in hotter, drier locations. Provide enough space for air flow, and plan for a mature footprint roughly 48-72 inches wide. In colder winters within its typical range (about USDA Zone 5-7), protect from drying winds and avoid letting the plant go into winter drought-stressed.
Care is simple: prune only as needed to maintain its natural outline, and do any light shaping in late winter or early spring. If you are using it as a small screen or punctuation in a mixed border, keep the base open so the lower foliage receives light and stays full.