Serving the Kansas City Metro for over 25 Years
Public Plant Profile

Tater Tot® Arborvitae

Thuja occidentalis 'SMNTOBAB' (Tater Tot®)

Category: Evergreen Shrub • Arborvitae

Tater Tot® Arborvitae is a compact evergreen perfect for small spaces and foundation planting.

Mature Height: 2-3 feet
Mature Width: 2-3 feet
Light: Sun
Zone: Zones 3-7
Maintenance: Low
Growth Rate: Slow
Season of Interest: Multi-season
Foliage: Evergreen
Bold Outdoors Verified Insight

Designed & Reviewed by

Josh Graber

Owner and Landscape Designer · Kansas State University · 25+ Years Experience

B.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Design – Kansas State University

25+ years of industry experience

Description

Tater Tot® Arborvitae is a compact, rounded evergreen shrub known for its dense, lush foliage. It maintains a tidy shape, making it ideal for small gardens or as a low hedge.

Ideal Conditions

Thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moderate moisture. Well-drained soil is ideal for optimal growth.

Soil Preferences

Prefers well-drained soil with moderate moisture. Adaptable to various soil types and pH levels.

Sun Needs

Sun

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

foundation plantingaccent

Special Features

Compact growth habitevergreen foliage

Wildlife Value

Attracts birds and provides shelter.

Resistance / Tolerance

Drought tolerant once established.

Notes from Our Designer

Great for small spaces and urban gardens. Provides year-round greenery and texture.

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See How Similar Plants Are Used in Real Landscapes

Explore related plants, compare shape, texture, and overall planting style, and get a better feel for what may fit your own outdoor space.

Use this page to get a feel for where Tater Tot® Arborvitae may fit in the landscape, then explore similar plants below for more ideas on form, texture, and overall planting style.

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Is Tater Tot® Arborvitae a good fit for Kansas City landscapes?

That depends on sun exposure, moisture, spacing, and how the plant will be used in the overall design. Bold Outdoors evaluates those practical conditions before recommending a plant broadly.

How should homeowners use this plant information?

Use the plant profile as a planning tool for size, conditions, and visual role, then connect it to the broader landscape design and installation plan for the property.

Next Step

Ready to plan your landscape?

Browse more plants or reach out and we will help you choose the right combination for your space.