Juniperus horizontalis 'Blue Chip'
groundcoverN. America Native

Blue Chip Juniper

Juniperus horizontalis 'Blue Chip'

$39.95
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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:

Ornamental UsesIts primary appeal is the striking, intense silver-blue foliage that provides year-round color. The low, spreading habit creates a beautiful, textured groundcover that contrasts well with other plants. In winter, it takes on attractive purplish tones.
Practical UsesAn excellent, low-maintenance groundcover for hot, dry, sunny areas. It is perfect for covering large banks and slopes, where it helps control erosion. Its high salt tolerance makes it ideal for coastal landscapes and roadsides.
Ecological BenefitsAs a North American native, it is well-adapted to local climates. The dense mat provides shelter for small wildlife, including insects and ground-nesting birds. It helps stabilize soil, preventing runoff and loss of topsoil.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

In Stock$39.95

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Choose a full sun site with very well-drained soil.
  2. Space plants 6 to 8 feet apart to allow for spread.
  3. Dig a shallow, wide hole for the root ball.
  4. Place the plant at the same soil level as its container.
  5. Backfill, water well, and apply a thin layer of mulch.
  6. 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

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-blue carpet for rock gardensDurable groundcover for sunny banksCoastal garden accent

Companion Plants

Yucca filamentosa Sedum spectabile Gaillardia grandiflora Bouteloua gracilis Echinacea purpurea

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.

Keep exploring

Grow Blue Chip Juniper with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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