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Description
Juniperus Communis Var. Depressa, also known as Common Juniper, is a low-growing evergreen shrub that is commonly used in landscaping. It is a member of the Cupressaceae family and is native to the Northern Hemisphere. The plant is characterized by its needle-like leaves, which are green or blue-green in color, and its small, fleshy berries that are blue-black in color. The berries are used to flavor gin and other alcoholic beverages.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Pinophyta |
| Class: | Pinopsida |
| Order: | Pinales |
| Family: | Cupressaceae |
| Genus: | Juniperus |
Appearance
Juniperus Communis Var. Depressa is a low-growing shrub that typically grows to be 1-2 feet tall and 4-6 feet wide. It has a spreading growth habit and forms a dense mat of foliage. The needles are approximately 1/4 inch long and are arranged in whorls of three. The plant produces small, fleshy berries that are blue-black in color and are approximately 1/4 inch in diameter. The bark of the plant is reddish-brown in color and is thin and flaky.
Care Guide
Water: Common Juniper is drought-tolerant and does not require a lot of water. However, it should be watered regularly during its first year of growth to help establish its root system.
Fertilization: Common Juniper does not require regular fertilization. However, a slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring to promote growth.
Soil: Common Juniper prefers well-draining soil that is on the acidic side. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and rocky soils.
Sunlight: Common Juniper prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.
Hardiness Zones: Common Juniper is hardy in USDA Zones 2-6.
Common Pests & Diseases
Common Juniper is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and scale insects. If infested, these pests can be treated with an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Common diseases that affect Juniperus species include cedar-apple rust, blight, and canker. These diseases can be prevented by planting the shrub in a well-draining location and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Common Juniper is native to the Northern Hemisphere and is found throughout Europe, Asia, and North America. It is commonly found in open woodlands, heaths, and rocky areas. The shrub prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Common Juniper deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Common Juniper is generally deer-resistant.Q: Can Common Juniper be used as a groundcover?
A: Yes, Common Juniper’s spreading growth habit makes it a good choice for use as a groundcover.Q: How often should Common Juniper be pruned?
A: Common Juniper does not require regular pruning. However, it can be pruned in the spring to maintain its shape.Q: Can Common Juniper be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Common Juniper can be grown in containers. However, it will require more frequent watering than if it were planted in the ground.
Related Plants
- Juniperus communis
- Juniperus horizontalis
- Juniperus sabina
- Juniperus chinensis
References
- “Juniperus communis var. depressa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a204
- “Juniperus communis var. depressa.” The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/common-juniper-juniperus-communis-3269343
- “Juniperus communis.” USDA Plants Database. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=JUCO2
