Juniperus chinensis

RHS Plant Profile
Chinese juniper

Synonyms

Juniperus gaussenii

Conifers

A variable conifer species forming either a tall, conical or columnar tree to 18m in height or a spreading shrub. Two types of aromatic leaves are usually found on the same tree; juvenile, awl-shaped leaves that are sharply and stiffly pointed and arranged either in threes or pairs and scale-like adult leaves, usually in pairs and closely flattened to the branchlet. Rounded fruits, 5-7mm across, ripen in their second year to a glaucous white

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

Higher than 12 metres

Max Spread

4-8 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
20–50 years
Max Spread
4-8 metres
Max Height
Higher than 12 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or North–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Foliage
Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Cupressaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Columnar upright, Bushy
Potentially harmful
Harmful if eaten/skin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Genus
Juniperus can be prostrate or erect, evergreen shrubs or trees with aromatic, scale-like or sharply pointed awl-shaped leaves, and small globose fruits
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
Far East

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in any well-drained soil

Propagation

Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Architectural
  • Low Maintenance

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids, scale insects, conifer red spider mite and caterpillars

Diseases

May be susceptible to phytophthora, canker and honey fungus. See also Conifers: brown patches