Juniperus rigida 'Pendula'

Weeping Needle Juniper

Juniperus rigida ‘Pendula’ — commonly called weeping temple juniper — is an evergreen shrub or small tree valued for its graceful, weeping habit and stiff, needle-like blue-green foliage. The cascading branches create a dramatic, irregular silhouette, often forming a picturesque specimen with strong architectural character.

Type: Evergreen shrub / small tree

Mature Size:
Width: 6–10 ft
Height: 10–20 ft

USDA Zones: 4a–8b

Form: Upright with weeping, cascading branches

Light: Full sun

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

Water: Low to medium; drought tolerant once established

Wildlife: Provides shelter for birds; deer resistant

Features & Landscape Uses: Excellent as a specimen plant, focal point, or accent in Asian-inspired or naturalistic landscapes. Its unique weeping form adds strong visual interest year-round.

Care: Plant in full sun with excellent drainage. Train early growth if a specific form is desired. Minimal pruning is needed; prune selectively to enhance structure.

Plant type

Evergreen Shrub

Height

10-20'

Width

6-10'

Hardiness zones

4–8

Sunlight

Full Sun

Bloom time

Spring

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Soil

Average, Sandy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Erosion control mass planting, Erosion control slopes, Mass Planting, Rock Garden, Specimen

Shape

Low Spreading, Mounded

Fruit

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

Yes