Juniperus squamata 'Blue Star'
Overview
Uses: Rock gardens, borders, slopes, containers, and foundation plantings.
Benefits: Brilliant silvery-blue evergreen foliage, naturally compact and slow-growing; exceptional texture and color contrast all year long.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 – 8
Sun: Full Sun
Life Cycle: Evergreen conifer shrub
Mature Height: ~1' – 2'
Mature Width: ~2' – 3'
Bloom/Display Season: Year-round foliage interest
Growth Rate: Slow
Summary
A garden classic that sparkles year-round. ‘Blue Star’ Juniper is a dwarf, mounding conifer prized for its radiant silver-blue needles that shimmer in sunlight like frosted stars. Its compact, dome-shaped form stays neat and low, adding a cool-toned accent wherever it’s planted.
Ideal for rock gardens, edging, or foundation beds, this low-maintenance juniper thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Its dense foliage adds structure and color even through winter, providing year-round texture in mixed borders or containers. Whether used alone or in groupings, ‘Blue Star’ brings consistent beauty and effortless charm to every landscape.
Care
Blue Star Juniper Care
Plant in full sun for best color and form. Choose a site with well-drained soil—junipers do not tolerate standing water or heavy, compacted ground. Once established, ‘Blue Star’ is highly drought tolerant and requires minimal maintenance.
Water regularly during the first growing season to help roots establish, then reduce frequency once the plant is settled. Avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot.
Fertilize lightly in early spring using a balanced slow release fertilizer to encourage healthy growth and strong color. Pruning is rarely needed; if desired, shape lightly in late spring after new growth emerges to maintain a tidy form.
With full sun, good drainage, and a little patience, ‘Blue Star’ rewards you with decades of low-growing, luminous color and lasting landscape appeal.
Size
Size of Blue Star Juniper for Sale Online
Our plants ship in greenhouse-grade grow pots and are appropriately sized for their containers. For current pot sizes and availability, please contact us.
Size of Blue Star Juniper When Mature
Expect a dense, mounding shrub approximately 1' – 2' tall and 2' – 3' wide at maturity under average garden conditions.
Additional Information
What is the botanical name of Blue Star Juniper?
The botanical name is Juniperus squamata ‘Blue Star’.
Is Blue Star Juniper evergreen?
Yes—‘Blue Star’ is a true evergreen, providing consistent silvery-blue color all year long.
How fast does Blue Star Juniper grow?
Growth is slow, typically less than 3" per year, making it a perfect low-maintenance choice for small gardens or containers.
What soil and light conditions are best for Blue Star Juniper?
Full sun and well-drained soil are essential. Avoid areas that stay wet or muddy after rain.
Is Blue Star Juniper deer resistant?
Yes—junipers are generally unappealing to deer and other browsing animals.
