Utah Juniper
Juniperus osteosperma or Juniperus utahensis
Planted 2016
Utah Juniper is a tree that can grow in almost any condition. It does well in clay soils, sandy soils, alkaline soils, and is drought tolerant. Its cones are a bluish sage color and were used medicinally by Native Americans. It has an irregular habit that depends on the growing conditions.
| Height | Width | Zone | Growth Rate | Water Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 45 ft. | 20 ft. | 3-7 | Slow | Low |
Leaf
Opposite decussate or whorls of three, scales in opposite pairs.
Fruit
Usually one seed per cone, long pointed seed, blunt end is dark.
Flower
Cone, 1/3” in diameter, berry-like, globe-shaped, reddish-brown with a white bloom.
Advantages
Drought tolerant, does well in alkaline and clay soils.
Disadvantages
Will outcompete other plants, intolerant of shade.