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Description
Juniperus Procumbens, commonly known as Japanese garden juniper or creeping juniper, is a low-growing evergreen shrub that belongs to the Cupressaceae family. It is native to Japan and grows up to 1-2 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide. The plant has a prostrate or creeping habit with long, trailing branches that spread outwards. It is commonly used in rock gardens, as a ground cover, or as a bonsai plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Cupressaceae |
| Genus | Juniperus |
Appearance
Juniperus Procumbens has scale-like leaves that are arranged in opposite pairs along the stems. The leaves are dark green in color and have a slightly prickly texture. The plant produces small, berry-like cones that start off green and turn blue-black when mature. The bark of the plant is reddish-brown in color and peels off in thin strips.
Care Guide
To care for Juniperus Procumbens, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil and full sun exposure. The plant prefers slightly acidic soil and should be watered regularly, but not overwatered. Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring using a balanced fertilizer. Juniperus Procumbens is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Juniperus Procumbens is relatively disease and pest resistant, but can be susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and juniper tip blight. Spider mites and scale insects can be treated with insecticidal soap, while juniper tip blight can be controlled by pruning affected branches.
Habitat
Juniperus Procumbens is native to Japan and is commonly found in rocky, mountainous areas. It grows well in well-draining soil and full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Juniperus Procumbens be grown indoors?
A: While Juniperus Procumbens can be grown indoors, it prefers full sun exposure and may not thrive in low light conditions.
Q: Can Juniperus Procumbens be used as a hedge?
A: While Juniperus Procumbens can be used as a low hedge, it may not provide adequate privacy due to its prostrate growth habit.
Q: How often should Juniperus Procumbens be fertilized?
A: Juniperus Procumbens should be fertilized once a year in the spring using a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Is Juniperus Procumbens deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Juniperus Procumbens is deer-resistant.
Related Plants
- Juniperus Chinensis
- Juniperus Horizontalis
- Juniperus Sabina
- Juniperus Virginiana
References
- “Creeping Juniper.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c965.
- “Juniperus procumbens.” Plant Database, www.gardening.cornell.edu/homegardening/scene34c6.html.
- “Creeping Juniper.” Fine Gardening, www.finegardening.com/plant/creeping-juniper-juniperus-horizontalis.
