About
Juniperus communis, the common juniper, is a variable, evergreen dioecious conifer ranging from spreading to columnar or bushy in habit, with needle-like, sharply pointed, grey-green, aromatic leaves and small, ovoid green fruits ripening to waxy-black. A native British conifer of chalk and limestone downs, heaths and rocky mountain slopes, and the parent of many garden cultivars.
About the genus
Juniperus, the junipers, are evergreen shrubs and trees ranging from prostrate ground-covers to tall, columnar or broadly spreading trees. They have aromatic foliage in juvenile awl-shaped or adult scale-like forms and produce small, fleshy, berry-like cones. Among the most garden-worthy and widely adaptable of all conifers.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeConifers, Shrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height4-8 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toTemp. N. Hemisphere
FragranceFoliage
ToxicitySkin allergen, wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any well-drained soil including dry, chalky or sandy soils in full sun or light dappled shade. See conifer cultivation for further advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or semi-ripe cuttings in early autumn
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, juniper scale and caterpillars
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to phytophthora, canker and honey fungus. See also Conifers: brown patches