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Shore Juniper

ID

3010-1498NP

Authors as Published

Alex X. Niemiera, Professor, School of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Virginia Tech

Summary:

Foliage: Awl-shaped needles about one-half inch long; sharp-to-the-touch; evergreen Height: To about 1.5 feet

Spread: To about 8 feet

Shape: Wide-spreading, low-growing ground cover

Main features: Shore juniper is an attractive low-growing wide-spreading ground cover species with attractive bluish foliage. This species tolerates salt spray and is quite tolerant of drought. Its drought tolerance has allowed it to be used in mass on slopes and other dry soil sites. This species does not tolerate poorly drained heavy soils. There are a few cultivars in the trade (see Additional Information section).

Plant Needs:

Zone: 6 to 9 Light: Full sun

Moisture: Average to dry

Soil: Most soils except poorly drained heavy soil pH: Acid to alkaline

Functions:

Shore juniper is useful on in mass, in planters, on slopes (branches will cascade).

Care:

This species does not require any special care if planted in a well-drained soil.

Additional Information:

There are a few cultivars in the trade. Here are some of the more popular cultivars: ‘Blue Pacific’ most popular cultivar in the trade; low-growing form (about 1 foot tall) with handsome bluish foliage
‘Emerald Sea’ similar to ‘Blue Pacific but is not as dense or blue
‘Silver Mist’ foliage color is the claim to fame for this cultivar; needles are silver-blue-green; height is about 1 foot.


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Publication Date

November 6, 2023