Juniperus rigida or the needle juniper is an outdoor evergreen and has sharp, bright green needles which make this species trickier to handle without gloves.
The needles are borne in groups of three. Needle juniper produces purplish berries, and has peeling, brown bark and a gnarled trunk.
It is an easy-to-grow species, but requires a fair amount of pruning and pinching if it is to look its best. The tree is a great favourite with bonsai enthusiasts.
Location
Native to northern China, Korea and Japan it is hardy in temperate areas. It grows best in full sun during the growing season.
Temperature
Where winter temperatures fall below -10°C (14°F) you can protect in an unheated greenhouse or shed.
Watering
Water regularly throughout the growing season, increasing in the summer as the environment dictates. Allow surface of soil to dry slightly between waterings. Compost should not be allowed to dry out completely or get waterlogged.
Pruning
Prune old wood in early spring and cut just above the cluster of needles, not through the needles. Prune new shoots regularly either by pinching with fingers or sharp scissors.
Feeding
Apply a high-nitrogen fertilizer in early spring and a general one in summer. Feed once a month. Always read the label. Do not fertilize during autumn and winter.
Repotting
Repot your Juniper when it needs it, possibly every 2-3 years. Never remove more than one third of the rootball.
For more advice please visit our
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Please Note: The picture is for guidance only. It is not generally possible to send the tree in the picture. Please note that measurements given are approximate not exact. Measurements given are from the bottom of the pot to the top of the tree, the pot colour may also vary from the picture. Due to their nature trees grow and whilst in our care may need pruning, this means the tree that you receive may differ in size to that given in the description. The appearance of the tree may vary depending on the season.
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