Tortuga® Juniper

Tortuga® is a compact, spreading selection of common juniper with green evergreen foliage and a naturally low mound. Proven Winners identifies it as *Juniperus communis* ‘SMNJCB’ and lists a mature height of 2 feet and a spread of 3–4 feet. ## Site and use Give Tortuga a sunny to partly sunny position with good drainage. Proven Winners lists USDA Zones 2a–7b, low water needs, and uses including edging, borders, containers, mass planting, and groundcover. Its compact spread can soften a paved edge or fill a small slope; leave room for its full mature width. The foliage remains green through the year, adding structure when herbaceous plants are dormant. ## Establishment Water regularly through the first growing season so roots establish, then reduce frequency as the plant settles in. Choose a well-drained site and avoid standing water. The developer describes Tortuga as tolerant of drought, heat, deer, rabbits, air pollution, and salt; these tolerances are most useful once the plant is established. Junipers are grown for foliage rather than flowers. ## Maintenance Little pruning is normally needed. If shaping or growth control is necessary, selectively remove a few branches instead of shearing the whole plant. The official listing identifies the selection as ‘SMNJCB’, U.S. Plant Patent 32,393, with Canadian PBRAF. Source: [Proven Winners Tortuga® Juniper](https://www.provenwinners.com/plants/juniperus/tortuga-juniperus-communis).