PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun exposure is preferred for dense, healthy foliage; tolerates partial shade but may become sparse in low-light conditions
Watering
Drought-tolerant once established; water deeply once every 1–2 weeks during establishment, with minimal supplemental watering for mature trees
Temperature
Hardy to -20°C; adapted to extreme temperature fluctuations in high-altitude, arid habitats
Characteristics
- Leaf: Scale-like, overlapping leaves in whorls of three; blue-green to gray-green, resinous
- Cones: Female cones are berry-like, fleshy, blue-black when mature; male cones are small, yellow-brown
- Stem/Bark: Reddish-brown bark, peeling in fibrous strips with age
Care Guide
Watering
Supplemental watering only during extended drought periods
Fertilization
Apply slow-release, low-nitrogen fertilizer once every 2–3 years if soil is severely nutrient-poor. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which can promote weak, disease-prone growth
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush clean, dried eggshells into a fine powder; sprinkle lightly around the base of the tree once yearly to improve soil texture and calcium levels without introducing excess nutrientsPruning
- Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches in late winter to maintain tree structure and airflow
- Thin dense foliage to reduce pest and disease risk, focusing on inner branches
- Avoid heavy pruning as junipers do not regrow vigorously from old wood
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic due to thujone; may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and neurological symptoms
Humans: Ingestion of large quantities of foliage or berries may cause mild gastrointestinal upset
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Used by Indigenous North American peoples for medicinal teas, ceremonial purposes, and craft materials
Usage: Ornamental landscaping, wildlife shelter, and as a source of durable, aromatic wood for crafts
