An outstanding low growing conifer that not only makes an excellent ground cover plant, Juniperus taxifolia ‘Lutchuensis’ is also easy care.
Originally from The Bonin or Ogasawara Islands which are situated to the south east of Japan, this a plant that will grow to around 25 cm (10 inches) in height and spread to 2 – 3 metres.
Also known as the Ryukyu Juniper requires a well drained soil, copes with windy coastal conditions and will withstand frosts.
Use it as a ground cover plant, grow it is containers, or let it cascade over a retaining wall. It is also suited for growing on embankments to help control soil erosion. This is a conifer that will fall over the edges of walls and containers which makes and outstanding feature.
Best position is in good sun although it will grow in light shade. In deep shade growth can become a little thin and leggy.
Foliage is typical needle like, soft and with a silvery underside. The dense foliage makes it a great plant for suppressing weeds in difficult areas such as embankments.
Sometimes called the Creeping Juniper this is regarded an being one of the very best of the low growing mat forming Junipers to use a ground cover plant.
How to Grow Juniperus taxifolia ‘Lutchuensis’
- Water in well when planting and through the first summer.
- Best in an open sunny position.
- Mulch around the plant to maintain a cool moist root run.
- Prune to maintain shade and bushy habit in late winter.
- Fertilise once a year with a slow release organic fertiliser.
Growth rate – This is relatively slow growing conifer and will spread to around 1 metre over 10 years. It will eventually spread to around 2 metres.