Compressa Pencil Point Upright Juniper Tree

Compressa is a very slow-growing, narrow, upright form of common juniper with evergreen, fine-textured needles. Its columnar outline suits a rock garden, conifer collection, or small space where a vertical accent is useful without a broad crown. ## Form and placement The Royal Horticultural Society describes this selection as a dense dwarf conifer, usually under about 80 cm tall; Oregon State University also reports upright branches and slow annual growth. Published mature estimates differ slightly: RHS gives 0.5–1 m in height and 0.1–0.5 m in spread, while Oregon State says it is usually below 30 inches tall. Allow for its slow, narrow habit and give it a well-drained site. Its small footprint can work in a rock garden, scree, or container, though a container needs drainage and water during dry spells. ## Growing conditions Plant in full sun or light shade. RHS lists chalk, loam, or sandy soil and recommends well-drained conditions; it also records drought resistance. Avoid persistently wet soil. The evergreen foliage is described as green to gray-green, with some references noting a blue-green cast. Junipers do not produce showy flowers; their value here is year-round structure and texture. ## Maintenance Compressa grows slowly, so allow it time to establish and avoid routine shearing that would spoil its naturally narrow form. Remove damaged or misplaced growth. RHS notes a possible skin-allergen risk, so wear gloves when handling. Sources: [RHS plant profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/97581/juniperus-communis-compressa/details), [Oregon State University Landscape Plants](https://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/juniperus-communis-compressa).