Juniperus chinensis

Features and care

Juniperus chinensis, commonly known as Chinese juniper, is an evergreen tree or shrub of variable size and moderate growth rate, native to China, Japan, and other regions of East Asia. It can reach between 10 and 20 meters in height, although its size and shape can vary considerably depending on the variety and growing conditions. It develops a dense crown, which can be pyramidal, columnar, or more spreading, with irregularly arranged branches. Mature specimens have scale-like leaves, while young shoots may develop needle-like leaves in shades ranging from deep green to bluish-green. It is a highly valued ornamental species due to its versatility, hardiness, and persistent foliage.

During its development, it produces small, fleshy, berry-like cones that turn bluish or bluish-gray when ripe. Its bark can be reddish, brown, or grayish and peels off in thin strips over time. It is a hardy and adaptable species, capable of growing in various soil types as long as there is good drainage, and it tolerates drought well once established. Its diverse growth habit allows it to be used both as a specimen tree and in groups, rows, hedges, and ornamental arrangements.

At Ornacom we cultivate each specimen directly, guaranteeing a balanced size, a uniform structure and vigorous development from the first years of planting.

Extended species profile

Verified cultivation data, designed so that any visitor can understand at a glance whether the plant is suitable for their climate and garden.

Crop

Exposure

Full sun

Irrigation

ORN-RIEGO 2/5 · low — supplemental irrigation during establishment and drought; allow to partially dry

Soil / moisture

Dry to cool; well drained

Bloom

Spring-summer

Climate

USDA Hardiness

4–9

Compatible climates

Cfa, Cwa, Dfa, Dfb, Csa

Tolerance to humid climate

ORN-HUM 3/5 · medium

Maintenance

Development

ORN-ALT 4/5 · 1–10 m · slow to medium growth — highly variable by cultivar

Pests

ORN-PLAGA 3/5 · medium — mites, mealybugs, shoot blight and Phytophthora

Pass

ORN-FERTILIZER 1/5 · very low — usually organic matter or slow release in spring is sufficient; avoid excess N

  • Warning

It does not tolerate saturated soil; in high humidity, watch for Phomopsis and other twig diseases.

Extended species profile

Verified cultivation data, designed so that any visitor can understand at a glance whether the plant is suitable for their climate and garden.

Crop

Exposure

Full sun

Irrigation

ORN-RIEGO 2/5 · low — supplemental irrigation during establishment and drought; allow to partially dry

Soil / moisture

Dry to cool; well drained

Bloom

Summer

Climate

USDA Hardiness

4–9

Compatible climates

Cfa, Cwa, Dfa, Dfb, Csa

Tolerance to humid climate

ORN-HUM 3/5 · medium

Maintenance

Development

ORN-ALT 4/5 · 1–10 m · slow to medium growth — highly variable by cultivar

Pests

ORN-PLAGA 3/5 · medium — mites, mealybugs, shoot blight and Phytophthora

Pass

ORN-FERTILIZER 1/5 · very low — usually organic matter or slow release in spring is sufficient; avoid excess N

  • Warning

It does not tolerate saturated soil; in high humidity, watch for Phomopsis and other twig diseases.

Contact our sales team

Get a quote