Contents
Description
Juniperus Horizontalis Blue Chip is a low-growing evergreen shrub that belongs to the Cupressaceae family. It is a cultivar of Juniperus horizontalis, a species of juniper native to North America. Blue Chip is a slow-growing plant that can reach a height of up to 30 cm and a spread of up to 1.2 m. It has a dense, prostrate habit with a blue-gray foliage that turns purplish in winter. The plant also produces small blue-black berries that attract birds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Cupressaceae |
| Genus | Juniperus |
Appearance
Juniperus Horizontalis Blue Chip has a unique appearance that makes it stand out in any garden. It has a low, spreading habit with a dense, compact foliage that is blue-gray in color. The foliage turns purplish in winter, adding a splash of color to the garden. The plant also produces small blue-black berries that attract birds. Blue Chip is a slow-growing plant that requires little maintenance, making it an ideal choice for gardeners who want a low-maintenance plant that looks great all year round.
Care Guide
Juniperus Horizontalis Blue Chip is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care. Here are some care tips to keep in mind:Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season. Make sure the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring.Soil: Blue Chip prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Amend the soil with organic matter to improve its fertility and drainage.Sunlight: Blue Chip prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Make sure the plant receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day.Hardiness Zones: Blue Chip is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Juniperus Horizontalis Blue Chip is generally a pest and disease-free plant. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and juniper tip blight. To prevent pests and diseases, make sure the plant is grown in well-draining soil and receives good air circulation. Use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to control pests and prune infected branches to prevent the spread of disease.
Habitat
Juniperus Horizontalis Blue Chip is native to North America, where it grows in rocky, well-drained soils in open woods, hillsides, and bluffs. The plant is adapted to cold winters and hot summers, making it a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. It is also drought-tolerant and can withstand periods of dry weather.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Juniperus Horizontalis Blue Chip a fast-growing plant?
A: No, Blue Chip is a slow-growing plant that requires little maintenance.Q: Does Juniperus Horizontalis Blue Chip attract birds?
A: Yes, the plant produces small blue-black berries that attract birds.Q: Can Juniperus Horizontalis Blue Chip tolerate drought?
A: Yes, Blue Chip is drought-tolerant and can withstand periods of dry weather.Q: Is Juniperus Horizontalis Blue Chip susceptible to pests and diseases?
A: Yes, the plant can be susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and juniper tip blight.
Related Plants
- Juniperus Horizontalis Plumosa
- Juniperus Horizontalis Wiltonii
- Juniperus Horizontalis Andorra Compact
References
- Burke, D. (2018). The Complete Guide to Growing Junipers. Createspace Independent Publishing Platform.
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Manual of Woody Landscape Plants: Their Identification, Ornamental Characteristics, Culture, Propagation and Uses. Stipes Publishing LLC.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Juniperus horizontalis ‘Blue Chip’. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b173
