Juniperus squamata 'Blue Star'

BLUE STAR JUNIPER
Family: Cupressaceae
Pronounced: joo-NIP-er-us skah-MAY-tah

Quick Jumps

Growing Guide
Rainy Side Notes

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GROWING GUIDE

Origin:
Garden.
Plant Group:
Shrubs.
Hardiness:
Sunset zones: 1-24.
USDA zones: 5-8.
Mature size:
Height: 2 feet (60 cm).
Width: 5 feet (1.5 m).
Leaf attributes:
Silvery-blue needles with a white stripe. .
Growth habit:
Compact, rounded shrub.
Light:
Full sun.
Soil:
Adaptable to most well-drained soil types in the Pacific Northwest.
Propagation Methods:
Softwood cuttings in summer with misting and bottom heat.
Pruning Methods:
Not necessary.
Pests and Diseases:
Root rot may occur in waterlogged soils. Juniper blight, spider mites, aphids and twig borers may be problematic.

 

Rainy Side Notes

 

In 1950, a branch sport from Juniperus 'Meyeri' was found in Holland. It was named J. 'Blue Star' and after being cultivated many years, it proved stable as a low shrub. It doesn't develop leaders like its parent plant. Introduced to the market in 1964, its handsome, rich blue needles with a white stripe are crowded along its branches. Mine grows with Woolly thyme at its feet, flanked by Heather and the spiky foliage of Iris siberica 'Caesar's Brother'.

Once established in a maritime Northwest garden, Juniperus squamata 'Blue Star' is drought tolerant and will not need additional watering. This outstanding dwarf blue conifer is a good choice for year-round color and texture.

 

Photographed in author's garden.