Overview
Rocky Mountain Juniper is a hardy, drought-tolerant evergreen native throughout the Rocky Mountain region. It varies greatly in form from narrow and columnar to low and spreading. The aromatic foliage and attractive blue, berry-like cones make it popular for landscaping. It's extremely tolerant of harsh conditions once established.
Identification
- Scale-like, blue-green to gray-green foliage
- Variable growth habit: columnar to spreading
- Blue, berry-like seed cones (technically not berries)
- Shredding, reddish-brown bark
- Aromatic foliage when crushed
- Grows 15-40 feet tall depending on form
Growing Conditions
- Extremely drought and cold tolerant
- Full sun
- Tolerates poor, rocky soils
- Very cold hardy (zones 3-7)
- Slow to moderate growth rate
- Excellent for dry, difficult sites
- Deep-rooted once established
- Heat and wind tolerant
Common Pests & Diseases
Cedar-Apple Rust
Fungal disease requiring apple family hosts; causes twig galls
Juniper Tip Blight
Causes tip dieback, especially in wet weather
Spider Mites
Cause bronzing of foliage, especially in hot, dry weather
Bagworms
Can defoliate branches
Care & Maintenance
Excellent for dry, difficult sites. Avoid overwatering which can lead to root diseases. Provide good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases. Prune selectively to maintain natural form; avoid shearing. Very low maintenance once established. Spider mites can be problematic during hot, dry weather; monitor and treat if necessary. Generally pest and disease resistant.
Why Choose Earth-Wise?
Our ISA Certified Arborists have extensive experience caring for rocky mountain junipers throughout Colorado's mountain communities. We understand the unique challenges these trees face and provide expert care including disease diagnosis, pest management, proper pruning, and health consultations. Whether you need help with an established tree or guidance on planting new ones, our team can help.