Plant Details

• Botanical NameJuniperus Grey Owl Sold OutOften sold as Juniperus ‘Grey Owl’, a low, spreading juniper cultivar with silver-gray foliage.
• Common NameJuniperus Grey Owl
• Size & GrowthTypically 2–3 ft tall and 6–10 ft wide in 10 years; broad, layered, spreading habit forming a dense mound.
• Hardiness ZonesUSDA 3–9
• Foliage TypeEvergreen; soft, scale-like sprays in striking silver-blue to gray; may take a purplish cast in winter cold.
• Bloom TimeNot showy. Male cones release pollen late winter to spring; female plants bear small berry-like cones.
• Growth RateModerate; 6–12 inches of spread per year under favorable conditions.
• Light RequirementsFull sun (6+ hours); best color and density in full exposure.
• Attracts PollinatorsNot primarily; junipers are wind-pollinated. Birds may use berries and dense structure for food and shelter.
• Indoor FriendlyNo—suited to outdoor conditions year-round; not a long-term houseplant.
• Container FriendlyYes in large, well-drained containers while young; ultimately best planted in the ground.
• Deer ResistantYes—aromatic foliage is typically avoided by deer.
• Pet WarningAvoid ingestion. Juniper foliage and cones can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in pets; prickly foliage may irritate skin.
• FragrantMild resinous scent when foliage is brushed or crushed; not strongly perfumed.
• Cut FlowerNot used as a bloom; sprigs are suitable for winter greens and wreath work.
• Grows Well WithGrows Well With Lavender, Salvia, Nepeta, Sedum, ornamental grasses (e.g., Feather Reed Grass), Spiraea, Barberry, Rugosa Rose.

Note: Specific size and cone production can vary with climate, soil, and regional selection; values above reflect typical performance for this juniper type.

Care Tips

• Planting InstructionsSite in full sun with good air flow. Dig a hole 2× as wide as the root ball and slightly shallower. Tease apart circling roots, set plant slightly above grade, backfill with native soil, and water deeply to settle. Space 6–10 ft apart to allow mature spread.
• Soil MoistureEvenly moist the first season; deep, infrequent watering thereafter. Allow the top 2–3 inches to dry between waterings. Excellent drought tolerance once established.
• Soil TypeWell-drained sandy or loamy soils preferred; tolerates poor or alkaline soils. Avoid heavy, wet sites; consider raised beds or berms if drainage is marginal.
• HumidityHandles low humidity and dry air; wind- and salt-tolerant for coastal gardens. Ensure air circulation in humid climates to discourage mites.
• Pruning InstructionsMinimal pruning needed. Shape lightly in late winter to early spring, trimming only into green growth. Avoid cutting back to bare, old wood—junipers do not readily resprout from it.
• Winter CareHardy in Zones 3–9. Mulch 2–3 inches over the root zone (keep off stems). Water late in fall during dry spells. In exposed sites, protect first-year plants from desiccating winds.
• Planting DepthSet the top of the root ball 1–2 inches above finished grade. Keep the trunk flare visible. Mulch lightly, leaving a gap around stems.
• FertilizationLight feeder. If needed, apply a balanced, slow-release conifer fertilizer in early spring. Avoid heavy nitrogen and do not fertilize after midsummer.
• Special CareExcellent for erosion control and tolerant of urban conditions and road salt. Monitor for bagworms and spider mites; treat early if found. Ensure strong drainage for long-term health.