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Description
Juniperus Scopulorum, commonly known as Rocky Mountain juniper, is a coniferous evergreen tree native to North America. It is primarily found in the Rocky Mountains, but it also grows in other mountainous regions across the continent. This tree can reach up to 40 feet in height and 10 feet in width, with a columnar or pyramidal shape. Its bark is grey-brown and has a scaly texture, and its leaves are blue-grey or green, needle-like, and arranged in whorls of three. The berries of the Rocky Mountain juniper are small, blue-black, and contain one or two seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Cupressaceae |
| Genus | Juniperus |
Appearance
The Rocky Mountain juniper has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other coniferous evergreen trees. Its leaves are scale-like and pressed closely against the stems, giving it a neat and tidy appearance. The leaves are typically blue-grey or green, and they can turn a reddish-brown color in the winter. The tree’s bark is grey-brown and has a scaly texture, which adds to its rugged appearance. The Rocky Mountain juniper’s berries are small, blue-black, and contain one or two seeds. Overall, this tree has a columnar or pyramidal shape that makes it an excellent choice for landscaping.
Care Guide
Juniperus Scopulorum is a hardy tree that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to keep your Rocky Mountain juniper healthy:- Water: The tree needs regular watering during its first year of growth. After that, it can tolerate drought conditions.- Fertilization: The Rocky Mountain juniper does not require frequent fertilization. You can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote growth.- Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate sandy or clay soils.- Sunlight: The Rocky Mountain juniper thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: This tree is hardy in zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Rocky Mountain juniper is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and bagworms. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. The tree can also be affected by juniper blight, which causes twig dieback and discoloration of the foliage. This disease can be prevented by keeping the tree healthy and pruning infected branches.
Habitat
The Rocky Mountain juniper is primarily found in the Rocky Mountains, but it also grows in other mountainous regions across North America. It prefers high elevations and can grow in a variety of soils and climates. This tree is often used for landscaping because of its unique appearance and hardiness.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Rocky Mountain juniper tolerate cold temperatures?
A: Yes, this tree is hardy in zones 4-9 and can tolerate cold temperatures. Q: How often should I water my Rocky Mountain juniper?
A: The tree needs regular watering during its first year of growth. After that, it can tolerate drought conditions. Q: Is the Rocky Mountain juniper susceptible to pests and diseases?
A: While this tree is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, it can be affected by spider mites, scale insects, bagworms, and juniper blight. Q: What is the Rocky Mountain juniper’s preferred soil type?
A: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate sandy or clay soils.
Related Plants
Here are some other species of Juniperus:- Juniperus Chinensis (Chinese juniper)- Juniperus Communis (common juniper)- Juniperus Horizontalis (creeping juniper)- Juniperus Sabina (savine)
References
– “Juniperus scopulorum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 24, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c900.- “Rocky Mountain Juniper.” Utah State University Extension. Accessed August 24, 2021. https://extension.usu.edu/rangeplants/shrubs/rocky-mountain-juniper.
