About
An useful evergreen conifer for ground cover, forming mats of grey-green prickly, weed-supressing foliage.
About the genus
Juniperus can be prostrate or erect, evergreen shrubs or trees with aromatic, scale-like or sharply pointed awl-shaped leaves, and small globose fruits
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeConifers
HabitSpreading branched, Matforming
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Gravel garden
ToxicityHarmful if eaten/skin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any well-drained soil. Junipers need little if any pruning. Useful in hot sunny sites
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings
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