WSU Clark County Extension
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Blue Rug Creeping Juniper

Scientific name: Juniperus horizontalis 'Wiltonii'
Taxonomy
Family:Cupressaceae
Type:Groundcovers evergreen
Native:NO
Plant Requirements
Zone:3 to 9
Moisture:Medium
Plant Characteristics
Height:0 ft
Width:6 ft
Additional Characteristics
Trees


Fruit

Leaves


Bark
Wildlife value

Poisonous
Description Wiltonii juniper, often referred to in the trade as Blue Rug juniper, is an excellent evergreen groundcover for a multitude of different soil types and sites. Over time a planting of the Blue Rug juniper will provide a dense, low growing carpet that prevents weed growth and keeps the soil intact.

  Morphology:
As a coniferous groundcover this juniper features bright blue foliage during the summer with a darker, reddish blue coloration during the winter. The vines are flat growing, and the foliage typically only grows 4” tall. With time each plant can grow to a width of 6’-8’. Leaves are soft textured, and mostly scale-like. Fleshy seed cones (dark blue berries) generally mature in two years, but are often absent on cultivated plants.

  Adaptation:
This plant grows well on all soil types, and requires no pruning other than for along side a flower bed where it can creep into the grass. It is often used in rockery plantings where it forms a very nice cascading effect as it spreads out.

  Pests:
Avoid wet sites that can encourage root rots.
For assistance, contact Dr. Charles Brun (brunc@wsu.edu), (360) 397-6060 5701
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