Juniperus squamata ‘Prostrata’ is a highly valued, slow-growing coniferous shrub known for its dense, prostrate (trailing) habit. It forms a thick, sprawling mat of sharp, needle-like foliage that displays an attractive steel-blue or blue-green hue, providing year-round colour and texture. As a ground cover, it is superb for rockeries, planting on banks for erosion control, or allowing it to cascade over retaining walls. It is exceptionally tough and hardy, tolerating a wide range of climates and conditions.
Care Tips:
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Position: Thrives in a position with full sun. It needs plenty of light to maintain its dense habit and best foliage colour.
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Soil: Requires well-drained soil. It is highly tolerant of poor, sandy, or rocky soils, but it will not tolerate heavy, waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
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Watering: Once established, it is extremely drought-tolerant and water-wise. Water regularly when young to establish a strong root system.
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Pruning: Little to no pruning is required to maintain its natural shape. If necessary, prune sparingly in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or undesirable branches. Avoid pruning into old, woody growth, as junipers usually won’t re-sprout from the bare wood.
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Tolerances: Excellent tolerance to heat, cold, wind, and salt spray (making it suitable for coastal areas).
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Usage: Fantastic for adding textural contrast and cool colour to dry gardens, xeriscaping, or large containers.
