Plant guide

Common Juniper.

Juniperus communis

Pronounced joo-NIP-er-us kom-YOO-nis

Also known as Common Juniper, Dwarf Juniper, Juniper

The common juniper is a hardy, evergreen conifer that brings a classic, rugged beauty to your garden. It is incredibly adaptable and thrives in many different climates. You will love its needle like foliage and the charming, berry like cones it produces.

At a glance

Care level: Easy
Plant type: Coniferous shrub
Light: Full sun
Indoor light: Direct sun
Water: Every 7 to 14 days
Mature size: 10 to 30 feet
Growth rate: Slow

Care

Plant your juniper in a spot with excellent drainage to keep the roots happy. Watch for browning needles, which can indicate poor drainage or fungal issues. Prune only during the dormant season to maintain its shape.

Watering: Water deeply when the top few inches of soil feel dry to the touch.
Feeding: Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer once in early spring.
Pruning: Trim back new growth in late winter or early spring to encourage density.
Repotting: Repot only when the plant becomes root bound or needs fresh soil.
Soil: Well-draining, sandy or rocky soil
Soil pH: Neutral to slightly acidic

Safety

Pets: This plant is generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, though ingestion of large amounts may cause mild digestive upset.

How to identify it

Sharp, needle like evergreen leaves
Silvery white bands on leaf undersides
Small, fleshy, berry like blue cones
Dense, spreading or upright growth habit

Science

Family: Cupressaceae
Genus: Juniperus
Order: Pinales
Class: Pinopsida

Taxonomy resolved against GBIF.

Is your common juniper looking unwell?

This page is a general guide. Pocket Botanist diagnoses problems from a photo of your actual plant, works out watering for your light and conditions, and reminds you when care is due.

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This guide was generated with AI and checked against GBIF taxonomy. It is general information, not horticultural or veterinary advice. Read about how we build these guides.