Juniperus Chinensis (Mint Julep) in 8″ Pot

A compact, spreading evergreen conifer with an arching, vase-shaped habit. Mature size typically 4–6 ft (1.2–1.8 m) tall and 6–8 ft (1.8–2.4 m) wide in the first 10 years; older specimens may reach ∼6 ft tall × 8–10 ft wide. Multi-stemmed with upright-arching branches whose tips downturn gracefully, creating a fountain outline that fills to the ground (no leggy base). Bark is thin, reddish-brown, peeling in strips. Foliage is primarily scale-like (adult) with some awl-shaped juvenile needles near shoot tips; color is bright mint-green (lime-green) that holds well through winter. New growth is especially fresh mint-green, aromatic when crushed (typical juniper resin). Produces small, round, powder-blue berry-like cones (5–10 mm) late spring–winter, often sparse on cultivated shrubs. Fine texture makes it useful as a focal point or mass.

Quick care: full sun (6+ hrs) for densest form and best color; tolerates light shade but becomes open. Hardy USDA 4–9 (–25 °F to –15 °F / –32 °C to –26 °C). Soil: adaptable—sand, loam, clay, chalk; pH 5.5–7.5; must be well-drained (intolerant of wet feet). Water young plants twice weekly; once established, drought-tolerant—water when top 5 cm (2 in) dry. Low fertilizer needs: feed once in early spring if desired (balanced or 7-4-4). Prune in late winter/early spring before growth; tolerant of heavy shaping and topiary (often sheared into pom-poms, hedges, or low screens). Deer- and rabbit-resistant, tolerant of urban pollution, salt, and wind. Problems are few—avoid overwatering (root rot) and spider mites in hot, dry sites. Uses: shrub border, foundation planting, massing, bank/erosion control, rock gardens, low hedge, topiary, bonsai. Life span ∼30 years under good conditions.