Juniperus scopulorum ‘Wichita Blue’ (Rocky Mountain Juniper)

Juniperus scopulorum ‘Wichita Blue’ is a popular juniper variety valued for its vibrant blue foliage and well-defined pyramidal shape. Its adaptability, ease of care, and aesthetic appeal make it a favored choice for a variety of landscaping needs.

Juniperus scopulorum ‘Wichita Blue’: An In-depth Look

Juniperus scopulorum ‘Wichita Blue’ is a cultivar of Rocky Mountain Juniper, notable for its striking blue foliage and dense, pyramidal growth habit. It offers a vibrant color and a well-defined shape.

Native: The species Juniperus scopulorum, commonly known as Rocky Mountain Juniper, is native to western North America, from southwest Canada to the Great Plains of the United States.

Plant Type and Habit: This slow-growing evergreen conifer has a pyramidal to columnar growth habit, featuring densely packed branches that contribute to its full, upright form.

Size: ‘Wichita Blue’ grows to about 10-15 feet in height (3-4.5 meters) and 4-6 feet in width (1.2-1.8 meters), making it an excellent medium-sized tree for various landscape applications.

Cones: Junipers are dioecious with separate male and female plants. Male plants produce small pollen cones, while pollinated female plants produce small, blue-black berry-like cones, adding winter interest.

Foliage: Its striking blue foliage is composed of fine, needle-like leaves that retain their vibrant color throughout the year.

Bark: The bark is a reddish-brown color, becoming more textured and furrowed with maturity.

Uses: Ideal for use as a specimen plant, in privacy screens, windbreaks, or as part of a hedge. Its color and form make it popular in both residential and commercial landscapes. Perfect for city gardens since Rocky Mountain Juniper is tolerant of pollution.

Hardiness: It is hardy in USDA zones 3-7, adaptable to a range of environmental conditions. It does not perform well in high humidity, or high night temperatures. It is also intolerant to ice.

Wildlife: Provides limited attraction for wildlife, though birds may feed on the cones.

Toxicity: Junipers are generally not toxic, but the cones can cause mild stomach upset if ingested in large quantities. Foliage may cause skin irritation. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling.

Deer and Rabbit: Relatively resistant to deer and rabbits, which makes it suitable for areas where these animals are a concern.

Drought: Once established, it has a good tolerance for drought conditions, making it a good choice for water-efficient landscapes.

Salt: Exhibits moderate salt tolerance, making it suitable for planting in coastal areas or landscapes where saline soil or salt spray may be present.

Invasiveness: This Juniper is not considered invasive. It grows in a controlled manner, maintaining its narrow form.

Benefits: Provides year-round visual interest with its striking blue foliage. It’s low-maintenance and offers a strong vertical element in landscape designs.

Rocky Mountain Juniper Growing Tips

Light: Prefers full sun for optimal growth and health. Can tolerate light shade but may have reduced foliage density.

Soil: Thrives in well-drained soil. Adaptable to a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. Tolerates dry, rocky soils and does not perform well in wet soils.

Water: Requires moderate watering, especially when young. Established plants are relatively drought-tolerant. Ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot. Overwatering should be avoided.

Fertilizer: Light fertilization can be done in spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm the plant.

Pruning: Minimal pruning is required, mostly for shaping or size control. Best pruned in late winter or early spring.

Propagation: Propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings, typically in summer.

Pests and Diseases: Junipers are often prone to twig blight and needle blight. They also act as hosts for cedar-apple rust and similar rust diseases during part of their lifecycle. In wet, poorly drained soils, root rot can be a problem. Additionally, they may occasionally suffer from insect pests like aphids, bagworms, webworms, spider mites and scale insects.