Blue Star Juniper

Blue Star is a compact, bun-shaped selection of flaky juniper, Juniperus squamata. Its dense, evergreen foliage is blue-gray, with awl-shaped leaves marked by a pale band; the cultivar arose as a witches' broom on ‘Meyeri’ and was introduced in the Netherlands in 1964 ([NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/juniperus-squamata-blue-star/common-name/blue-star-juniper/); [Oregon State University](https://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/juniperus-squamata-blue-star)). ## Landscape Use NC State reports a compact mound about 1–3 feet tall and 1–4 feet wide. Oregon State lists a similar mature size of about 3 feet by 4 feet and describes its foliage as steel blue. The evergreen mound suits foundation plantings, rock gardens, specimen use, and massed groundcover. NC State lists ‘Blue Star’ Singleseed Juniper, Flaky Juniper ‘Blue Star’, and Singleseed Juniper ‘Blue Star’ as common names. ## Growing Conditions Give it full sun and well-drained soil; it tolerates dry and sandy soils and is drought tolerant once established. Oregon State lists USDA zone 4. NC State says it also tolerates heat and humidity, but it does not tolerate wet soil. The RHS profile lists clay, loam, and sand and partial shade as a suitable position. ## Maintenance NC State describes this cultivar as slow growing and very low maintenance, usually needing no pruning. Water regularly during establishment, then reduce supplemental watering after it roots. In wet spring conditions, watch for twig blight and ensure that the planting site drains well. [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/juniperus-squamata-blue-star/common-name/blue-star-juniper/)