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Description
Juniperus Californica is a species of coniferous tree that is native to the southwestern United States, particularly California, Arizona, and Nevada. Also known as the California Juniper, this plant can grow up to 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide. It has a conical or columnar shape with a thick trunk and twisting branches. The bark is reddish-brown and peels off in thin strips.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Cupressaceae |
| Genus | Juniperus |
Appearance
Juniperus Californica has scale-like leaves that are blue-gray in color and arranged in whorls of three. The leaves are needle-like on young trees and turn scale-like as the tree ages. The plant produces cones that are small, round, and berry-like, and are green when young, turning brown as they mature. The cones are about 1/4 inch in diameter and contain one to three seeds.
Care Guide
Juniperus Californica requires minimal care and is easy to grow. It prefers well-drained soil and requires little water once established. Fertilization is not necessary, but can be done in the spring if desired. This plant should be planted in full sun and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, making it suitable for hardiness zones 7-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Juniperus Californica is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including spider mites, bagworms, and cedar-apple rust. Spider mites can be controlled with insecticidal soap, while bagworms can be removed by hand. Cedar-apple rust can be prevented by removing any infected plants nearby.
Habitat
Juniperus Californica is found in a variety of habitats, including deserts, mesas, and mountains. It is often found growing alongside other desert plants such as Joshua trees and yuccas. This plant is also important to wildlife, providing food and shelter for a variety of animals.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Juniperus Californica be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Juniperus Californica can be grown in containers, but it may not reach its full potential size.
Q: Is Juniperus Californica drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, Juniperus Californica is drought-tolerant once established. However, it should be watered regularly until it is established.
Q: Does Juniperus Californica produce a strong scent?
A: Yes, Juniperus Californica has a strong, resinous scent.
Q: Can Juniperus Californica grow in sandy soil?
A: Yes, Juniperus Californica can grow in sandy soil as long as it is well-drained.
Related Plants
- Juniperus chinensis
- Juniperus communis
- Juniperus horizontalis
- Juniperus scopulorum
References
- “Juniperus Californica.” California Native Plant Society. https://www.cnps.org/gardening/gardening-resources/gardening-articles/juniperus-californica
- “Juniperus Californica.” Arizona State University. https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapaiplants/SpeciesDetail.php?genus=Juniperus&species=californica
- “California Juniper.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=juca9
