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Description
Juniperus Pfitzeriana Old Gold is a low-growing evergreen shrub that is popular for its golden-yellow foliage. It is a hybrid of Juniperus chinensis and Juniperus sabina and is native to China. This plant is also known as Old Gold Juniper and is widely used in landscaping due to its vibrant color and easy maintenance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Cupressaceae |
| Genus | Juniperus |
Appearance
Juniperus Pfitzeriana Old Gold has a low-growing, spreading habit and can reach a height of up to 2 feet and a spread of up to 6 feet. Its foliage is golden-yellow, which turns to bronze in winter. The leaves are needle-like, about 1/4 inch long, and arranged in whorls of three. This plant produces small, brownish cones that are about 1/4 inch in diameter. It is a slow-growing plant and can take up to 10 years to reach its full size.
Care Guide
Juniperus Pfitzeriana Old Gold is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season. In winter, water only when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including poor soil.
- Sunlight: Juniperus Pfitzeriana Old Gold prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but its foliage may not be as vibrant.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Juniperus Pfitzeriana Old Gold is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and bagworms. It is also prone to root rot if the soil is too wet.
Habitat
Juniperus Pfitzeriana Old Gold is native to China and is widely cultivated in gardens and landscapes around the world. It is commonly used as a ground cover, edging plant, or in rock gardens. It is also used to stabilize slopes and prevent soil erosion.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Juniperus Pfitzeriana Old Gold tolerate drought?
A: Yes, this plant is drought-tolerant once established. However, it prefers regular watering during the growing season.
Q: How often should I prune Juniperus Pfitzeriana Old Gold?
A: You can prune this plant in early spring to maintain its shape and size. Avoid pruning more than one-third of the plant’s overall size at once.
Q: Can I grow Juniperus Pfitzeriana Old Gold in a container?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in a container as long as it has good drainage and is not overwatered.
Q: Does Juniperus Pfitzeriana Old Gold attract wildlife?
A: This plant does not attract wildlife as it does not produce flowers or fruits.
Related Plants
- Juniperus Chinensis
- Juniperus Sabina
- Juniperus Horizontalis
- Juniperus Virginiana
References
- “Juniperus pfitzeriana ‘Old Gold’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c130
- “Old Gold Juniper.” The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/old-gold-juniper-growing-profile-3269323
- “Juniperus Pfitzeriana ‘Old Gold’.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/58929/i-Juniperus-pfitzeriana-i-Old-Gold/Details
