Contents
Description
Juniperus Squamata Blue Star is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that belongs to the Cupressaceae family. It is a cultivar of Juniperus squamata, which is native to the Himalayas and western China. The Blue Star cultivar was first discovered in Germany in the 1960s and has since become popular due to its beautiful blue-grey foliage and compact size.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Coniferophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Cupressaceae |
| Genus | Juniperus |
Appearance
The Blue Star cultivar grows to a height of 2-3 feet and has a spread of 4-5 feet. It has a compact, mounding form and its blue-grey foliage is arranged in a star-like pattern. The needles are scale-like and prickly to the touch. In the winter, the foliage takes on a purple tint. The Blue Star cultivar produces small, blue berries that are a favorite of birds.
Care Guide
Juniperus Squamata Blue Star is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It is drought tolerant and prefers well-draining soil. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter. Fertilize in the spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer. The Blue Star cultivar prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Juniperus Squamata Blue Star is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and juniper tip blight. To prevent these issues, ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. Prune away any dead or diseased branches.
Habitat
Juniperus Squamata Blue Star is native to the Himalayas and western China. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The Blue Star cultivar is commonly used in rock gardens, mass plantings, and as a low hedge or border plant.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Juniperus Squamata Blue Star?
A: Water deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.
Q: What fertilizer should I use for the Blue Star cultivar?
A: Fertilize in the spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer.
Q: What hardiness zones is the Blue Star cultivar suitable for?
A: The Blue Star cultivar is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases of Juniperus Squamata Blue Star?
A: The plant can be susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and juniper tip blight.
Related Plants
- Juniperus communis
- Juniperus chinensis
- Juniperus virginiana
- Juniperus horizontalis
References
- “Juniperus squamata ‘Blue Star’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c145. Accessed 3 Nov. 2021.
- “Juniperus squamata.” Wikipedia, 1 Nov. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juniperus_squamata. Accessed 3 Nov. 2021.
