The Russian Arborvitae isn't likely to do well in our heat and humidity (I'm sc zone 8, too). I think the warmest zone it will tolerate is zone 7. It's a gorgeous plant, but I'd stick with the junipers, or choose something else.

Oh, I want it sooo bad...and junipers can'at take my shade...I have a freind here that has teh Russian Arborvitae in her yard here in Hartsville, and they are beautiful and doing wonderful...I'm just afraid of the shade...but I read they can take shade....does anyone know anything else, that would look kinda like this for shade...and wont' get tall..this needs to stay short....thanks.. BobbieB

Low growing Cephalotaxus harringtonia 'Fritz Huber is the cultivar I think. Looks kind of like yew. Tolerates shade and Southern heat

Thanks so much for all your help.... :) BobbieB