Japanese garden juniper - Juniperus procumbens (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Japanese garden juniper

Also known as: Bonin islands juniper

Japanese garden juniper (*Juniperus procumbens*) is an evergreen, perennial, shrubby ground cover that will grow from 20 to 30 cm tall and spread 3 to 4.5 m wide. Blue-green foliage takes on a purple tinge in winter and never needs pruning. It thrives in full sun to partial shade. Water sparingly, providing more irrigation in summer heat. It needs well-drained soil.

Scientific classification

Species

Japanese garden juniper (Juniperus procumbens)

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial

Lifespan

3 m to 4.5 m

Spread

Green, Blue

Leaf Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Moderate

Growth Rate

Distribution of Japanese garden juniper

Distribution Map

Japanese garden juniper is a plant native to the mountainous regions of East Asia. While it predominantly grows in its original habitat, it has also been introduced and cultivated in temperate parts of Asia. Japanese garden juniper is valued for its ornamental qualities and has been adopted in various areas outside its native range for horticultural purposes.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Mountainous areas

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Fertility, strength, athleticism

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Japanese garden juniper, including the following common varieties :

Junipers 'Nana'

Toxicity

Cats and dogs face mild toxicity risks from consuming japanese garden juniper seeds in high amounts. Symptoms include gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, diarrhea, and physical discomfort. Immediate veterinary care is crucial in suspected cases to manage symptoms. Pet owners should monitor pets closely and prevent contact with japanese garden juniper seeds to ensure their safety.

Identify toxic plants in your garden

Find out what’s toxic and what’s safe for humans and pets.

Download the App for Free

Quickly Identify Japanese garden juniper

Low stature, under 2 feet (60 cm) tall, but wide-reaching branches up to 15 feet (4.5 meters).

Unique flower structures resembling cones, small in size (0.2 inches/5 mm) with pale colors.

Waxy, blackish berries, 0.3 inches (7-10 mm) wide, elusive on cultivated specimens.

Spiny, needle-like leaves, blue-green to gray-green, forming whorls of three, year-round color.

Thin, brownish-gray stems, 0.1 to 0.3 inches (2-7 mm) in thickness, rough surface with scales.

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Japanese garden juniper

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Japanese garden juniper is drought-tolerant, thriving in dry environments, making it suitable for xeriscaping. Water sparingly, about every two weeks, and ensure well-draining soil to avoid root rot during wet conditions. Its resilience makes it ideal for low-maintenance outdoor cultivation.

Fertilize: For optimal health, japanese garden juniper needs balanced fertilizers like 10-10-10, applied bi-annually in early spring and late summer. Use about 1/2 cup per square yard to avoid root burn, and ensure to water before and after. Newly planted japanese garden juniper require extra nutrients for establishment.

Pruning: Japanese garden juniper thrives with regular pruning for shape and health. Focus on removing dead branches and thinning dense areas to enhance airflow. Optimal pruning occurs in early to late winter, promoting strong spring growth and ensuring an aesthetically pleasing, vigorous plant.

Propagation: Propagation of japanese garden juniper can be achieved through semi-hardwood cuttings. Cut a healthy shoot, apply rooting hormone, and plant in well-draining soil. Maintain consistent moisture and provide indirect light. Be patient, as rooting may take time, ensuring new plants inherit the parent's characteristics.

Repotting: Repot japanese garden juniper every 2-3 years in early spring using a shallow, wide pot. Ensure well-draining soil and moderate watering. Place in a sunny location for optimal recovery, supporting japanese garden juniper's growth and maintaining its elegant appearance in your garden.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free