<i>Thuja </i>plant named ‘BLTP’

Abstract

A new and distinct variety of Thuja plant named ‘BLTP’ is disclosed, characterized by a controlled growth habit and fresh green foliage color year-round. Plants of ‘BLTP’ have been observed to grow to 10 to 13 feet tall at ten years of age, shorter than most commercial varieties. Pruning is not needed to maintain and attractive landscape plant. Tolerance for Thuja Blight and humidity have been observed in the new variety. The new cultivar is a Thuja, suitable for horticultural purposes.

Claims

1. A new and distinct cultivar of Thuja plant named ‘BLTP’ as herein illustrated and described.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PHOTOGRAPHS

(1) The accompanying photograph in FIG. 1 illustrates in full color typical plants of ‘BLTP’ grown outdoors in Independence, La. The plants are approximately 8 years old, in the ground.

(2) FIG. 2 illustrates a close-up view of a branchlet of the new variety.

(3) The photographs were taken using conventional techniques and although colors may appear different from actual colors due to light reflectance it is as accurate as possible by conventional photographic techniques.

DETAILED BOTANICAL DESCRIPTION

(4) In the following description, color references are made to The Royal Horticultural Society Colour Chart 2007 except where general terms of ordinary dictionary significance are used. The following observations and measurements describe ‘BLTP’ plants grown outdoors in Loxley, Ala. Plants are approximately 2 to 3 years old, in a 3 gallon nursery container. Measurements and numerical values represent averages of typical plant types. Botanical classification: Thuja plicata ‘BLTP’.

PROPAGATION

(5) Time to rooting: About 45 days at approximately 18-27° C. Root description: Moderately dense branching. Slightly woody, both fine and thick roots present. Colored white and tan, not accurately measured with The R.H.S. chart.

PLANT

(6) Growth habit: Small evergreen tree with a narrow ovate habit. Height: 40 cm. Plant spread: 15 cm. Typical growth rate: Moderate. Pinching required: No. Branching characteristics: Upwards at acute angles. Main branches occur at angles of about 15°. Branchlets occur at angles of about 45°. Average number of main branches: Average 4 major vertical branches. Length of main branches: Average range 25 to 35 cm. Diameter of main branches: 7 mm. Main branch shape in cross section: Oval. Main branch texture: Rough, scaly. Lateral branch color: Mature.—Near Grey-Brown 199A tinted Greyed-Red 183C. Immature.—Near Green 137B. Lateral branch strength: Very strong, flexible. Branchlet length: 7 to 10 cm. Branchlet width: 4.5 cm. Internode length: Average range 1 cm to 1.5 cm between branchlets.

FOLIAGE

(7) Leaf: Arrangement.—Fan-shaped branchlets composed of flattened, alternate, overlapping scales. Shape.—Scales. Average length.—1 mm. Average width.—1 mm. Apex.—Acuminate. Base.—Truncate. Margin.—Entire. Texture of top surface.—Smooth, waxy. Texture of bottom surface.—Smooth, waxy. Resin gland.—Less than 1 mm in diameter, color not distinguishable from leaf blade, appears as a minute, shiny circular structure. Color.—Young foliage upper side: Yellow-Green 144B. Young foliage under side: Yellow-Green 144B. Mature foliage upper side: Green 137A, overlayed 139A. Mature foliage under side: Green 137A, overlayed 139A. Winter foliage: No significant color change. Venation.—Indistinguishable from leaf blade. Fragrance.—Strong, aromatic, somewhat Cedarlike scent.

FLOWER

(8) Flowering not observed.

OTHER CHARACTERISTICS

(9) Disease and pest resistance: Observed tolerance for Thuja Blight (Didymascella thujina). Neither resistance nor susceptibility of other normal diseases and pets of Thuja observed. Drought tolerance: No tolerance for drought observed. Temperature tolerance: USDA Zones 5 through 9.