JUNIPERUS HORIZONTALIS WILTONII / BLUE RUG JUNIPER

JUNIPERUS HORIZONTALIS WILTONII / BLUE RUG JUNIPER

A Spreading, Low-Growing Groundcover with Striking Blue Foliage
Juniperus horizontalis 'Wiltonii,' commonly known as Blue Rug Juniper, is a popular evergreen groundcover with a spreading, low-growing habit and vibrant blue-green foliage. This hardy conifer creates a dense, soft carpet of color that makes it an excellent choice for ground cover, slopes, or cascading over retaining walls. With its fast growth rate and resilience, it’s perfect for gardeners seeking a durable and beautiful option to fill in empty spaces or control erosion.

Why Choose Blue Rug Juniper?

Comparison: Known for its spreading, carpet-like form, 'Wiltonii' is a standout compared to other groundcover plants. Its rich blue foliage provides vibrant year-round color, and its low-growing nature makes it ideal for filling in spaces, preventing weed growth, or softening hard landscape features like rock walls and paths.

Companions: Pairs well with other low-growing plants such as creeping thyme, dwarf conifers, or ground-hugging perennials. It also works beautifully as a filler between taller shrubs or trees in garden beds or along pathways.

Key Features:

• Spreading Groundcover: This juniper quickly spreads to form a dense carpet of foliage, making it an ideal choice for filling in bare spots or covering large areas.
• Striking Blue-Green Foliage: The soft, silvery-blue needles provide a unique color contrast and remain vibrant throughout the year, adding a touch of color to the landscape.
• Hardy & Resilient: Thrives in USDA zones 3–9, making it adaptable to a wide range of climates, from colder northern regions to milder, temperate zones.
• Low Maintenance: Once established, Blue Rug Juniper requires minimal care, is drought-tolerant, and is highly resistant to pests and diseases.
• Erosion Control: Its spreading growth habit makes it an excellent choice for preventing soil erosion on slopes or hillsides.

Specifications:

• Mature Height: 0.2 m tall
• Mature Width: 1.5–2.5 m wide
• Growth Rate: Fast (30–60 cm per year)
• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Hardiness: Zone 3–9

Blue Rug Juniper is an outstanding choice for gardeners looking for an easy-to-grow, striking ground cover with year-round appeal. Its vibrant blue foliage, resilience, and spreading growth habit make it perfect for creating colorful carpets, covering slopes, or softening harsh garden features.