Skyrocket is renowned as one of the narrowest upright junipers available on the Australian market. It naturally grows into a very tall, slender column, reaching heights of 3 to 5 metres while maintaining a width of only 60 to 90 centimetres. Its foliage is a beautiful needle-like texture in a distinct shade of silvery-blue that remains consistent throughout the year.
Because of its unique pencil-like growth habit, Skyrocket is a favourite for modern and Mediterranean-style gardens where space is at a premium. It provides a strong vertical element without the footprint of a traditional tree. It is commonly used in pairs to frame doorways, as a repeat feature along a fence line, or to add height to narrow garden beds and Divider Troughs.
Care Tips
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Position: Requires a position in full sun to maintain its tight, columnar shape and vibrant blue colour. In too much shade, the growth can become loose and open.
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Climate: Exceptionally hardy. It is highly frost-tolerant and copes well with the heat and dry conditions of the Australian summer once established.
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Soil: Prefers well-drained soil. Like most junipers, it will not tolerate wet feet or waterlogged ground. It is adaptable to a range of soil types from sandy to light clay, provided drainage is good.
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Watering: Low to moderate water requirements. Water regularly during the first year of planting to establish a deep root system. Once mature, it is quite drought-tolerant.
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Fertilising: Apply a slow-release, balanced fertiliser in early spring. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilisers which can cause the plant to grow too quickly and lose its narrow, dense form.
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Pruning: Naturally grows in its signature shape and generally requires no pruning. If any side branches begin to sag or grow out of place, they can be lightly trimmed back to maintain the silhouette.
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Support: In very windy or exposed sites, young trees may benefit from staking until the root system is firmly anchored.
