Species

Juniperus sabinaJuniper

2 other cultivars

groundcover

Buffalo Juniper

Juniperus sabina 'Buffalo'

The Story

Plant Bio

Juniperus sabina is a species of juniper native to the mountains of central and southern Europe and western and central Asia. It is a low-growing, spreading evergreen shrub.

'Buffalo' is a female cultivar known for its wide-spreading, low-growing habit and feathery, bright green foliage that holds its color well through winter.

Uses & Benefits:

Offers year-round texture and color with its feathery, bright green foliage. Its low, spreading form creates a living carpet, softening hardscapes and providing a uniform look in mass plantings.

An exceptional groundcover for sunny, dry locations where turfgrass struggles. It is highly effective for erosion control on slopes and banks due to its dense, soil-holding root system. Its toughness makes it ideal for low-maintenance areas.

Provides dense, low cover for ground-dwelling birds and other small wildlife, protecting them from predators. The small, berry-like cones on this female cultivar can be a food source for some bird species.

SpeciesJuniperus sabinaJuniper

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Groundcover

Height

12 inches

Width

84 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Low

Humidity

Low to moderate

Lifespan

Long-lived evergreen shrub

Native To

Europe and Asia

Toxicity

All parts are toxic if ingested

Planting

How to Grow

Select a location in full sun with well-drained soil.
Space plants 5 to 7 feet apart for mass plantings.
Dig a hole as deep and twice as wide as the container.
Set the plant in the hole, ensuring it's at the same depth.
Backfill with soil and water thoroughly.
Mulch lightly to conserve moisture and prevent weeds.

Pro Tip

Plant on slopes or banks where its dense, spreading habit can effectively control soil erosion.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.
Water during establishment, then only in extreme drought.
Prune to shape or remove dead branches in late winter.

Don't

Do not plant in wet, poorly drained soils.
Avoid shady locations, which lead to sparse growth.
Do not use overhead irrigation frequently.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Tough, spreading groundcoverSlope stabilizer for erosion controlLow-maintenance foundation planting

Companion Plants

Sedum 'Autumn Joy'Echinacea purpurea Perovskia atriplicifolia Spiraea japonica Yucca filamentosa

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Buffalo Juniper questions

What zones can Buffalo Juniper grow in?

Buffalo Juniper is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Buffalo Juniper deer resistant?

Yes — Buffalo Juniper is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

Does Buffalo Juniper need full sun?

Buffalo Juniper does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Buffalo Juniper drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Buffalo Juniper handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.