The Grey Owl Juniper, also known as Juniperus virginiana 'Grey Owl', is a popular cultivar of the Eastern Red Cedar. This evergreen shrub or small tree is native to eastern North America, from Canada to the Gulf of Mexico. The Grey Owl Juniper is a compact, slow-growing plant that is widely used in landscaping and gardening due to its attractive, silvery-gray foliage and pyramidal shape.
Characteristics and Features
The Grey Owl Juniper has a number of desirable characteristics that make it a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers. It is a drought-tolerant plant, requiring minimal watering and maintenance. The shrub’s silvery-gray foliage is fragrant, with a scent that is often compared to cedar wood. The Grey Owl Juniper is also deer-resistant, making it a good choice for gardens in areas with high deer populations.
Growth Habit and Size
The Grey Owl Juniper is a compact, slow-growing plant that typically reaches a height of 3-6 feet (90-180 cm) and a width of 4-6 feet (120-180 cm). It has a pyramidal shape, with dense, scale-like foliage that is a silvery-gray color. The shrub’s growth habit is upright, making it a good choice for hedges, screens, and topiaries.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Mature Height | 3-6 feet (90-180 cm) |
| Mature Width | 4-6 feet (120-180 cm) |
| Foliage Color | Silvery-gray |
| Foliage Texture | Dense, scale-like |
Cultivation and Care
The Grey Owl Juniper is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. The shrub is tolerant of extreme temperatures, but may require protection from extreme winds and frost. Regular pruning is not required, but may be necessary to maintain the shrub’s shape and size.
Pest and Disease Resistance
The Grey Owl Juniper is resistant to many common pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, and scale. However, the shrub may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too moist. Regular inspections and monitoring can help prevent pest and disease problems.
- Pest-resistant: aphids, spider mites, scale
- Disease-resistant: root rot, canker
- Fungal-resistant: cedar-apple rust, juniper blight
What is the ideal soil pH for the Grey Owl Juniper?
+The ideal soil pH for the Grey Owl Juniper is between 6.0 and 7.0, although the shrub can tolerate a wider range of soil pH levels.
How often should the Grey Owl Juniper be watered?
+The Grey Owl Juniper should be watered regularly during its first year of growth, but established plants can tolerate drought and require minimal watering.
Can the Grey Owl Juniper be used as a hedge or screen?
+Yes, the Grey Owl Juniper can be used as a hedge or screen due to its dense, upright growth habit and ability to tolerate pruning.
