Blue Rug Juniper

Blue rug juniper is a hardy evergreen plant with silvery-blue foliage that can take on a purplish tone in the winter months. This variety often does not produce berries. With an intermediate growth rate, it reaches less than a foot tall and can spread several feet wide, forming a dense mat. Thrives in rocky, thin mountain soils or the sandy gravel of inland deserts. Use on slopes for coverage or erosion control. Plant along retaining walls and curbs, where the creeping foliage will cover them year-round. Good along the hot, heat-reflective edges of streets and driveways. Native to North America.

Growth Habit

3-6 in. tall, 6-8 ft. wide at maturity. Evergreen.

Care

When the plants are mature, they require occasional watering and shaping. They typically don't have issues with pests or diseases and are resistant to deer and air pollution. Just make sure the plants have adequate airflow and drainage, as most of their issues are caused by overly damp environments. Blue rug prefers to grow in dry/loamy soil but the key to it is excellent drainage as it does not like to lay in water (full sun is good).

Toxicity

Deer resistant. Juniper berries, needles, and stems are all classified as being minor toxic to dogs and puppies. Eating juniper will most likely not be fatal, but it will make your dog sick. Common symptoms are vomiting or diarrhea.