Juniperus squamata 'Blue Star' - Ienupar tarator albastru

Juniperus squamata 'Blue Star', also known as "blue creeping juniper," is a dwarf evergreen conifer from the Cupressaceae family, native to Asia (Himalayas and China). It is valued for its compact, bright silvery-blue foliage and its globular shape, making it a popular choice for small gardens, rockeries, borders, or containers. Due to its slow growth and decorative appearance, it is ideal for modern landscapes and limited spaces.

Appearance of leaves, flowers, and fruits

• Leaves: The foliage consists of short, prickly needles arranged in dense spirals, of an intense silvery-blue color with a metallic shade, especially in winter. The needles are soft to the touch when young, becoming stiffer as they mature. The color remains constant throughout the year, providing a vibrant contrast in landscapes.
• Flowers: The flowers are insignificant, monoecious or dioecious, appearing in spring as small cones, yellow (male) or green (female). They have no ornamental value.
• Fruits: The cones are small, round, 4-8 mm, blue-black with a waxy bloom, maturing in 1-2 years. They are rare and do not significantly contribute to the decorative aspect.

Growth characteristics

• Height and width: Grows up to 30-50 cm tall and 1-1.5 meters wide at maturity (after 10-20 years), forming a compact, globular shrub, slightly flattened. The maximum diameter is reached in 15-20 years.
• Vigor: Slow growth, at a rate of 3-5 cm/year, making it ideal for spaces where a neat appearance is desired without frequent maintenance.
• Type: Evergreen conifer with short, dense branches spreading horizontally.

Growing conditions

• Exposure: Prefers full sun (6+ hours/day) to maintain the intense silvery-blue color. Tolerates partial shade, but foliage may become greener in low light.
• Soil: Grows in well-drained soils, from sandy to clayey, with neutral to slightly acidic pH (5.5-7.5). Tolerates poor, rocky soils but does not withstand waterlogged soils.
• Watering: Water moderately, especially in the first years, keeping the soil slightly moist. Once established, it is drought tolerant and requires occasional watering only during long dry spells.
• Temperature: Hardy in zones 4-8 (down to -29°C), suitable for temperate climates, including Romania. Tolerates cold and cold winds well.

Care and resistance

• Resistance: Very resistant to cold, drought, urban pollution, and poor soils. Tolerates wind and salt, making it suitable for coastal areas. Not resistant to deer, which may eat the foliage.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in spring, once every 2-3 years, to stimulate growth. Does not require frequent fertilization.
• Pruning: Does not require extensive pruning due to slow growth. Remove dead or damaged branches in spring to maintain the globular shape. Shaping cuts are rare and should be done carefully to avoid an unnatural look.
• Pests and diseases: Resistant to most diseases but can be affected by rust (Phragmidium) or mites in dry conditions. Inspect regularly and use fungicides or insecticidal soap if necessary. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
• Wildlife: The cones attract small birds, and the dense foliage provides shelter for wildlife.

Uses

Juniperus squamata 'Blue Star' is ideal for rock gardens, borders, ground cover, containers, or modern landscapes. Its silvery-blue color contrasts beautifully with plants such as lavender, sage, hosta, or green conifers. It is used in Japanese gardens, low alignments, or as an accent in ornamental arrangements. Due to its dwarf stature, it is perfect for small spaces, terraces, or balconies. It has received the RHS Award of Merit for its ornamental value.

Origin

Juniperus squamata is native to the Himalayas and China, and the 'Blue Star' cultivar was selected in the Netherlands in the 1950s from a mutation of the 'Meyeri' variety. It was introduced into horticulture for its unique foliage and compact form, becoming one of the most popular dwarf junipers.

Juniperus squamata 'Blue Star' is a dwarf evergreen conifer with silvery-blue foliage and a compact globular shape, ideal for small gardens, rockeries, or containers. Easy to grow – with sun, well-drained soil, and minimal care – it is resistant to cold, drought, and pollution. Decorative all year round, this juniper adds color and texture, being an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a long-lasting ornamental shrub with maximum visual impact.

Height including pot: approx. 25 cm
Pot diameter: 17 cm