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Key characteristics

Family: Cupressaceae
Height: 1 to 2 feet
Width: 2 to 3 feet
Flower color: Non-flowering; produces small cones
Foliage color: Silvery blue, dense, and needle-like
Bloom time: N/A
Light: Full sun
Water: Low
Maintenance: Low; minimal pruning required, primarily for shape if necessary
Growing zone: USDA Zones 4 to 8
Wildlife: Birds (shelter and occasional cone use)

Shrubs

Juniperus squamata 'Blue Star'

Blue Star Juniper

Juniperus squamata 'Blue Star' is a compact, slow-growing evergreen shrub admired for its dense, mounded form and vibrant, steel-blue foliage. The needle-like leaves retain their intense color throughout the year, adding year-round interest to gardens and landscapes. Although it does not produce showy flowers, its unique texture and shimmering foliage make it a standout element in gardens.

Native to the mountainous regions of Asia, including the Himalayas and parts of China, Juniperus squamata is well adapted to cold climates and rocky terrains.

Light

Full sun

Water

Low

Bloom time

N/A

Find this plant

Works well in

Waterwise Gardens
Rock Gardens
Slopes & Banks
Deer Prone Areas

Companion plants

Yarrow · Oregon grape · Coreopsis · Blanket flower · Phlox · Bulgarian honey garlic

Design tip

Use ‘Blue Star’ as a compact color accent where its silvery steel-blue foliage can contrast with surrounding greens. Its dense, mounded form and intense year-round color make it especially effective among rocks, along border edges, or as a distinctive container specimen.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)