
Blue Chip Juniper
Juniperus horizontalis 'Blue Chip'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Groundcover
Height
10 inches
Width
96 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low
Humidity
Adaptable
Lifespan
Long-lived evergreen shrub
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Mildly toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
A prostrate, mat-forming evergreen shrub native to North America, valued for its ability to cover large areas of ground. The species is highly variable. 'Blue Chip' is a popular male cultivar prized for its intense silver-blue foliage that turns a purplish-blue in winter, providing excellent year-round color.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a full sun site with very well-drained soil.
- Space plants 6 to 8 feet apart to allow for spread.
- Dig a shallow, wide hole for the root ball.
- Place the plant at the same soil level as its container.
- Backfill, water well, and apply a thin layer of mulch.
- Water regularly for the first season until established.
Pro Tip
For the best blue color, plant in full, direct sun; foliage may appear more greenish in partial shade.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Ensure excellent drainage.
- Provide full sun for best color.
- Allow soil to dry between waterings once established.
Don't
- Do not plant in shade or wet soil.
- Avoid frequent overhead watering.
- Do not bury the crown when planting or mulching.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Blue Chip Juniper questions
What zones can Blue Chip Juniper grow in?
Blue Chip Juniper is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Blue Chip Juniper deer resistant?
Yes — Blue Chip Juniper is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
Does Blue Chip Juniper need full sun?
Blue Chip Juniper does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Blue Chip Juniper drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Blue Chip Juniper handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Juniperus to compare

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Juniperus chinensis 'Blue Point'

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Juniperus horizontalis 'Skyrocket'

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Juniperus squamata 'Blue Star'

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Juniperus chinensis 'Kaizuka'

Foemina Chinese Juniper
Juniperus chinensis 'Foemina'

Blue Rug Juniper
Juniperus horizontalis 'Wiltonii'
