Juniperus conferta 'SCHLAGER'

Shore juniper is an evergreen conifer from Japan and Russian island Sakhalin. In the wild it covers the seashore dunes and dry slopes in this area. It helps to hold the soil with its robust root system and protects it from erosion. The green species, which is not sold in Europe anyway, was considered less hardy than modern varieties and selections with different foliage colour, however, tests proved that rather than severe frosts the original plants suffered from compacted, water-logged soil.

Schlager is a German variety of shore juniper with fastinating silvery blue to blue-grey prickly leaves (needles). It forms a dense groundcover at slow to medium growth rate. Its striking colour calls for combination with plants of contrasting colours like yellow and rich green. It has aromatic leaves and produces small, spherical fruit that has been used as spices from everlasting.

Shore juniper is not demanding as far as soil fertility and pH value, but it definitely needs a well-drained site in full sun. It will tolerate long periods of drought once established. It is fully hardy to about -27°C (USDA zone 5) and suitable for outdoor pots.

Last update 23-01-2013