shrub

Berkshire Juniper

Juniperus communis 'Berkshire'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

12 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6

Water

Low to moderate once established

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Many years

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Mildly toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Juniperus communis 'Berkshire' is an evergreen coniferous shrub characterized by dense, scale-like foliage and a low-growing, spreading habit with small, bluish-green berries that add ornamental value year-round. This cultivar is distinguished by its particularly compact form and vibrant bluish berry production, making it an excellent choice for ground cover or rock gardens with an emphasis on ornamental berries.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides evergreen structure and silvery-green foliage, enhancing landscape texture year-round.

Drought tolerant, requiring minimal watering once established, ideal for xeriscaping.

Supports local bird populations and improves air quality with dense foliage.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Choose well-draining soil and full sun exposure.
Plant in early spring or fall for best establishment.
Water regularly during first year, then reduce watering.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape.
Monitor for pests and diseases, treat accordingly.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry periods 🌱
Prune to shape after new growth begins
Apply mulch annually to conserve moisture

Don't

Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
Never prune in late summer or fall
Avoid fertilizing in late fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Evergreen hedge with silvery foliageDrought-tolerant border plant

Companion Plants

Lavender Sedum Russian sage Yarrow Ornamental grasses

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Berkshire Juniper questions

What zones can Berkshire Juniper grow in?

Berkshire Juniper is hardy in USDA Zones 4–6. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Berkshire Juniper deer resistant?

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

When does Berkshire Juniper bloom?

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

Does Berkshire Juniper need full sun?

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

Is Berkshire Juniper drought tolerant?

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