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Description
Juniperus Excelsa, commonly known as Greek juniper or tall juniper, is a coniferous evergreen tree that belongs to the genus Juniperus. It is native to the eastern Mediterranean region, including Greece, Turkey, and Iran. The tree can grow up to 15 meters in height and has a narrow conical shape. Its bark is reddish-brown, and its foliage is needle-like and blue-green in color. The tree produces small, round cones that are initially green and turn brown as they mature.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Cupressaceae |
| Genus | Juniperus |
Appearance
Juniperus Excelsa has a narrow conical shape and can grow up to 15 meters in height. Its bark is reddish-brown, and its foliage is needle-like and blue-green in color. The tree produces small, round cones that are initially green and turn brown as they mature. The foliage is arranged in whorls of three and is prickly to the touch. The tree has a dense, bushy appearance and is often used as a hedge or screen plant.
Care Guide
Juniperus Excelsa is a low-maintenance tree that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for your tree:Water: Juniperus Excelsa prefers well-draining soil and does not tolerate wet feet. Water your tree deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.Fertilization: Fertilize your tree in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in the fall, as this can encourage new growth that is susceptible to winter damage.Soil: Juniperus Excelsa prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter to improve drainage.Sunlight: Juniperus Excelsa prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Juniperus Excelsa is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Juniperus Excelsa is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:Bagworms: These caterpillars spin bags around themselves and feed on the foliage of the tree. Handpicking and insecticidal sprays can control this pest.Cedar apple rust: This fungal disease causes yellow spots on the foliage and produces orange gelatinous structures on the branches. Removing infected branches can control this disease.Spider mites: These tiny pests suck the sap from the foliage, causing it to turn yellow and brown. Insecticidal sprays can control this pest.
Habitat
Juniperus Excelsa is native to the eastern Mediterranean region, including Greece, Turkey, and Iran. It grows in a variety of habitats, including rocky slopes, open woodlands, and scrublands.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Juniperus Excelsa drought tolerant?
A: Yes, Juniperus Excelsa is drought tolerant once established.Q: Can Juniperus Excelsa be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Juniperus Excelsa can be grown in containers but may require more frequent watering.Q: Does Juniperus Excelsa require pruning?
A: Juniperus Excelsa does not require pruning but can be pruned to maintain its shape.Q: Is Juniperus Excelsa deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Juniperus Excelsa is deer-resistant.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Juniperus Excelsa:
- Juniperus communis
- Juniperus chinensis
- Juniperus horizontalis
- Juniperus virginiana
References
- “Juniperus excelsa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 22, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c749.
- “Juniperus excelsa.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed September 22, 2021. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:262910-1.
- “Juniperus excelsa.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 22, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/14738/i-Juniperus-excelsa-i/Details.
