Species

Juniperus confertaShore Juniper

2 other cultivars

groundcover

Golden Pacific Juniper

Juniperus conferta 'Golden Pacific'

Same species

Species

Juniperus confertaShore Juniper

2 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Groundcover

Height

12 inches

Width

72 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Low to moderate

Lifespan

Long-lived evergreen shrub

Native To

Japan, Sakhalin Island

Toxicity

Mildly toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Juniperus conferta is a prostrate, needle-leaved evergreen conifer native to coastal areas of Japan. It is highly tolerant of salt spray and sandy soils. 'Golden Pacific' is a low-spreading cultivar distinguished by its bright, golden-yellow new growth which provides vibrant, year-round color and excellent ground coverage.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Its trailing habit and striking golden foliage provide year-round color and texture, making it an exceptional groundcover for sunny, dry locations. It excels at softening the edges of walls and pathways.

This juniper is an excellent choice for erosion control on slopes and banks due to its dense, spreading root system. Its low, dense mat of foliage effectively suppresses weeds once established.

The dense branches offer valuable shelter for ground-nesting birds and other small wildlife. It is a tough, drought-tolerant plant, reducing the need for supplemental irrigation in water-wise landscapes.

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a location receiving at least six hours of direct sun daily.
Ensure the soil is very well-drained; amend with sand if necessary.
Dig a hole twice the width of the container.
Position the plant with the top of the root ball level with the soil.
Backfill the hole, gently firming the soil around the roots.
Water thoroughly after planting and weekly for the first year to establish.

Pro Tip

Plant on a slope or wall edge to allow its cascading habit to be fully appreciated; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide excellent drainage.
Mulch with gravel or stone in rock gardens.
Allow soil to dry out between waterings once established.
Prune selectively to maintain desired size.

Don't

Do not plant in heavy clay or poorly drained soil.
Avoid planting in shady locations, which causes sparse growth.
Don't overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
Avoid fertilizing heavily; junipers thrive in lean soil.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vibrant cascading groundcover for slopesDurable seaside and rock garden plantingGolden carpet for sunny borders

Companion Plants

Sedum 'Angelina' Yucca filamentosa Echinacea purpurea Pennisetum alopecuroides Sempervivum species

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Golden Pacific Juniper questions

What zones can Golden Pacific Juniper grow in?

Golden Pacific Juniper is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Golden Pacific Juniper deer resistant?

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

When does Golden Pacific Juniper bloom?

Golden Pacific Juniper typically blooms in late spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Golden Pacific Juniper need full sun?

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

Is Golden Pacific Juniper drought tolerant?

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