Juniperus horizontalis 'Blue Rug'

Blue Rug Juniper

Juniperus horizontalis ‘Blue Rug’ — commonly called Blue Rug creeping juniper — is a low-growing evergreen shrub valued for its dense, carpet-like habit and vivid silvery-blue foliage that intensifies in color in full sun and often develops purplish tones in winter. Its tight, ground-hugging growth forms a uniform mat, making it one of the most effective junipers for consistent groundcover.

Type: Evergreen shrub

Mature Size:
Width: 6–8 ft
Height: 6–12 in.

USDA Zones: 3a–9b

Form: Very low, prostrate, mat-forming

Light: Full sun

Soil: Well-drained soil; thrives in sandy, rocky, and poor soils

Water: Low; highly drought tolerant once established

Wildlife: Provides shelter for birds; deer resistant

Features & Landscape Uses: Excellent for slopes, groundcover, rock gardens, and large-scale plantings. Its uniform growth and strong blue color provide dependable year-round interest.

Care: Plant in full sun with excellent drainage. Avoid heavy, wet soils. Minimal pruning is needed; trim lightly only if shaping is desired.

Plant type

Evergreen Shrub

Height

1'

Width

6-8'

Hardiness zones

3–9

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Fast

Leaf color

Green

Soil

Average, Sandy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Groundcover, Mass Planting

Shape

Low Spreading, Prostrate

Fruit

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

Yes