![20240407_111306.jpg](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmWQvNmKNHwzZabs5o6HKWHHxtnC8uqY15U4Q8KdnYjo9B/20240407_111306.jpg) Juniperus squamata, also known as the flaky juniper or creeping juniper, is a stunning evergreen shrub that adds a touch of year-round beauty to landscapes. **Habit and Form:** This versatile plant can take on various forms, ranging from a sprawling groundcover to a more upright, bushy shrub, depending on the specific cultivar. The species itself can grow to be 2–10 meters (6+1⁄2–33 feet) tall, though some cultivated varieties remain much smaller. Its flaky, brown bark adds a touch of rustic charm, and its branches tend to spread horizontally, creating a layered effect. **Leaves:** One of the most captivating features of Juniperus squamata is its foliage. Unlike some junipers with scale-like leaves, Juniperus squamata boasts broad, needle-like leaves. These evergreen beauties are typically 3–9 millimeters (1⁄8–3⁄8 in) long and arranged in whorls of three around the stems. The color of the leaves varies depending on the cultivar, but they often have a captivating blue-green hue with a glaucous (waxy) coating that gives them a silvery sheen. Some varieties even feature a distinctive white stripe running down the center of each needle, adding another layer of visual interest. **Varieties:** Due to its popularity as a landscape plant, Juniperus squamata has numerous cultivated varieties, each offering unique characteristics. Here are a few popular examples: * **Blue Star:** This dwarf cultivar is prized for its compact, mounded form (typically reaching only 3 feet tall) and its steel-blue foliage with a prominent white stripe. * **Blue Carpet:** This low-growing variety forms a dense, spreading mat of blue-green foliage, making it an excellent choice for groundcovers or edging. * **Holger:** This selection features a more upright, bushy habit with soft, blue-green needles that lack the white stripe. **Versatility in the Landscape:** Juniperus squamata's adaptability and diverse forms make it a valuable addition to many landscapes. Here are some ways it can be used: * **Foundation Plantings:** The lower-growing varieties like Blue Carpet are perfect for adding evergreen interest to the base of buildings. * **Rock Gardens:** The creeping habit and silvery foliage of Juniperus squamata make it a great choice for softening the edges of rocks and adding texture to rock gardens. * **Specimen Plant:** The upright varieties can function as attractive focal points in a garden bed. * **Bonsai:** Due to its small leaves and ability to be trained, Juniperus squamata is a popular choice for bonsai enthusiasts. With its attractive foliage, interesting growth habits, and low-maintenance needs, Juniperus squamata is a versatile and beautiful addition to any garden. Ref.: - https://gemini.google.com/

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