Juniper Varigate Juniperus conferta, commonly known as the Rocky Mountain juniper is a species of juniper native to western North America. It grows in a variety of habitats from sea level to high mountains, and is a common tree in the western United States and Canada. The Juniper Varigate is a evergreen tree with a conical to rounded crown. It typically grows to 15–30 m (49–98 ft) tall and 15–25 cm (6–10 in) in diameter, but can reach up to 50 m (160 ft) tall and 90 cm (35 in) in diameter in optimal growing conditions. The bark is thin, reddish-brown, and peels off in strips. The leaves are scale-like, 2–5 mm (0.08–0.20 in) long, and arranged in whorls of three. The cones are berry-like, 6–9 mm (0.24–0.35 in) diameter, blue-black with a white waxy coating, and contain one to three seeds.
Benefits:
Juniper Varigate include its use as an ornamental tree, as well as its value in erosion control and as a source of fuel and timber. The berries are an important food source for birds and small mammals, and the tree provides shelter and nesting sites for many bird species. It is also a host plant for the larvae of several moths and butterflies.
How to care:
The Juniper Varigate is a low-maintenance tree that is tolerant of a wide range of soils and growing conditions. It is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. It can be pruned to maintain a desired shape, and does not require regular fertilization.
Water requirement:
The Juniper Varigate is a drought-tolerant tree and does not require frequent watering.
Pruning:
The Juniper Varigate can be pruned to maintain a desired shape.
Fertilization:
The tree does not require regular fertilization.
Type of Soil:
The tree is tolerant of a wide range of soils.
Propagation:
The plant can be propagated from seed, cuttings, or grafting.
Pests and Diseases:
The plant is resistant to most pests and diseases.
Landscape uses:
The plant is widely cultivated as an ornamental tree, and can be used in a variety of landscape settings. It is also sometimes used in Christmas decorations.