Blue Rug Juniper
Juniperus horizontalis 'Wiltonii' · Evergreen, Coniferous, Softwood, Groundcover shrub
Plant Family
Cupressaceae
Tree Category
Evergreen, Groundcover, Ornamental
Variety / Cultivar
'Wiltonii' (Blue Rug)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 3 to 9, demonstrating excellent cold hardiness and the ability to adapt to a wide range of temperate climates.
About This Tree
A low-growing, mat-forming evergreen conifer with a dense, spreading habit that hugs the ground closely. It features trailing stems that layer as they grow, creating a dense carpet of silvery-blue foliage that provides excellent erosion control and a striking accent in landscapes.
Leaf Characteristics
Small, scale-like, and needle-like juvenile leaves arranged tightly along the stems, possessing a striking silvery-blue to blue-green color that often takes on a slight purplish tinge in cold winter weather.
Bark Characteristics
Thin, reddish-brown bark that exfoliates in strips on older stems, though it is largely hidden by the dense, low-growing foliage canopy.
Growing Information
Origin Region
North America, native to northern regions, Canada, and the northern United States
Growing Season
Evergreen year-round with active growth occurring in spring and summer, maintaining blue-green color throughout the winter months
Sunlight & Water Needs
Requires full sun for best foliage color and density. Highly drought-tolerant once established and prefers well-drained soils, intolerant of standing water or soggy root zones.
Mature Size
Reaches a height of 4 to 6 inches with a spread of 6 to 8 feet, exhibiting a slow to moderate growth rate and a lifespan of several decades.
Special Characteristics
Exceptional drought tolerance, excellent salt spray tolerance making it suitable for coastal areas, deer resistance, and superior performance as a slope stabilizer and erosion control plant.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides low-level cover and nesting sites for small birds and mammals, while the dense mat helps shelter beneficial ground insects.