What is the scientific name for Arborvitae?

The scientific name for Arborvitae is Thuja occidentalis. Thuja is the genus name, and occidentalis identifies the specific species commonly referred to as Eastern Arborvitae or Northern White Cedar. Arborvitae is well known for its use in landscaping and as a privacy hedge due to its dense evergreen foliage.

While the option referring to Thuja sp. indicates a species within the Thuja genus, it is not specific enough to identify Arborvitae specifically. The term "sp." implies that it could refer to any species within that genus, which includes several other types of Arborvitae, such as Thuja plicata, or Western Red Cedar.

In contrast, the incorrect choices highlight different genera entirely. Pinus sylvestris refers to Scots Pine, and Juniperus virginiana refers to Eastern Red Cedar, both of which are different trees and not related to Arborvitae in terms of species classification. Thus, the correct identification points specifically to Thuja occidentalis, ensuring clarity in the context of Arborvitae.