PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Requires 6+ hours of direct daily sunlight for vibrant foliage; tolerates partial shade in hot, arid regions
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5–7 cm of soil is completely dry; drought-tolerant once established
Temperature
Hardy to -20°C; withstands hot, dry summers with proper drainage to avoid root rot
Characteristics
- Leaf: Dense, scale-like blue-green to dark green foliage arranged in opposite pairs
- Cones: Small yellow male cones in spring; female cones mature to round, blue-black berry-like structures
- Stem: Trailing woody stems that root at nodes when in contact with soil
Care Guide
Watering
Water deeply every 7–10 days; reduce frequency during prolonged rain
Fertilization
Apply slow-release granular feed once at the start of growth. Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer to avoid excessive foliage growth
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface, avoiding direct contact with stems to prevent irritationPruning
- Trim overgrown trailing branches in early spring to maintain desired shape and spread
- Remove dead, brown foliage to improve airflow and reduce fungal disease risk
- Thin dense growth patches to allow light penetration to inner foliage
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic due to thujone content; irritates digestive tract and may cause neurological effects
Humans: Ingestion of large amounts may cause gastrointestinal upset; skin irritation in sensitive individuals
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes longevity and resilience in traditional Japanese garden design
Usage: Groundcover, rock garden specimen, bonsai material, and erosion control on slopes
