Juniperus Virginiana Grey Owl, also known as Eastern Red Cedar, is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that is native to North America. It is widely used as a decorative plant in gardens and landscapes, thanks to its attractive appearance and low maintenance requirements.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Cupressaceae |
| Genus | Juniperus |
Appearance
The Juniperus Virginiana Grey Owl is a compact shrub that can grow up to 5 feet tall and 4 feet wide. It has silver-grey foliage that is soft to the touch and produces blue-black berries in the fall. The plant maintains its attractive color for most of the year, making it a popular choice for ornamental landscaping.
Care Guide
The Juniperus Virginiana Grey Owl is a low maintenance plant that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your shrub healthy:
- Water: Water regularly, but do not overwater. Ensure the soil is well-drained.
- Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers a slightly acidic, well-drained soil.
- Sunlight: The Juniperus Virginiana Grey Owl prefers full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Juniperus Virginiana Grey Owl is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can still be affected by several issues, including:
- Spider Mites: These pests can cause discoloration and webbing on the plant. Regularly inspect the plant and treat with insecticidal soap if necessary.
- Cedar Apple Rust: This fungal disease can cause yellow spots on the foliage. Remove any infected plant parts and apply fungicide as directed.
- Root Rot: This disease can occur if the soil is too wet. Ensure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
The Juniperus Virginiana Grey Owl is native to North America, and can be found in a variety of habitats, including fields, meadows, and forests. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of soil and climate conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Juniperus Virginiana Grey Owl deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is considered deer-resistant, making it a good choice for gardens and landscaping in areas with high deer populations.
Q: How often should I prune my Juniperus Virginiana Grey Owl?
A: The plant requires minimal pruning. However, you can prune it in the spring to remove any dead or damaged branches and maintain its shape.
Q: Can I grow the Juniperus Virginiana Grey Owl in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container. Ensure the container has adequate drainage and water as needed.
Q: Can I use the berries of the Juniperus Virginiana Grey Owl for cooking?
A: Yes, the berries are edible and can be used to flavor meats and sauces. However, they should be used in moderation, as they can cause digestive issues if consumed in large quantities.
Related Plants
- Juniperus Virginiana
- Juniperus Chinensis
- Juniperus Horizontalis
- Juniperus Sabina
References
- “Juniperus virginiana Grey Owl.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282467. Accessed 22 June 2021.
- “Eastern Red Cedar.” National Park Service, www.nps.gov/plants/pubs/chesapeake/plant/1094.htm. Accessed 22 June 2021.
- “Juniperus virginiana Grey Owl.” Plant Finder, www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/3477/grey-owl-juniper/. Accessed 22 June 2021.
