Juniperus Communis 'Effusa'

Juniper Effusa Prostrate Common

Juniperus communis ‘Effusa’ — commonly called spreading common juniper — is a low-growing evergreen shrub valued for its prostrate, spreading habit and fine-textured blue-green to gray-green needle foliage. Its trailing branches form a dense ground-hugging mat, making it especially useful for covering slopes and adding durable evergreen texture to difficult sites.

Type: Evergreen shrub

Mature Size:
Width: 4–8 ft
Height: 1–2 ft

USDA Zones: 2a–7b

Form: Low, prostrate, spreading

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; cones may attract birds; deer resistant

Features & Landscape Uses: Excellent for slopes, rock gardens, groundcover, and erosion control. Its rugged nature makes it ideal for harsh or low-maintenance sites.

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

Plant type

Flowering Shrub

Height

1-2'

Width

48'

Hardiness zones

2–7

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Does not flower

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Soil

Average, Sandy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Erosion control slopes, Groundcover, Mass Planting

Shape

Low Spreading

Bark

Exfoliating

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Salt tolerant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No