Golden Flat Juniper Juniperus communis var. depressa 'Aurea'

'Aurea' is a needled evergreen cultivar that can thrive in a wide range of soil types. It is a low-growing juniper, maturing at 4 feet high, that is very tolerant of adverse conditions, with the exception of heat and humidity, and is hardy through USDA Zones 2 to 6. Drought tolerance is good after it is established. It grows in well-drained sunny areas and even in dry, rocky, and sandy soils.  It has spreading branches and ascending main branches which have a striking yellow color giving it its name.  Its branches are considered procumbent; that is, branches that grow along the ground without setting roots.  It has strong, yellow variegated shoots that will fade over time.  Depressa refers to the flattened, low growing form; Aurea comes from the golden-yellow foliage.  

The parent plant var. depressa is considered to be one of the most common junipers found in the garden.  It does not do well in heat and humidity and these junipers are not widely successful below USDA Zone 6. It is best grown in moist, well-drained soils in full sun. These plants are particularly noted for their superior tolerance for cold temperatures and will even survive within the Arctic Circle.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems: No serious diseases or insect problems. Juniper blight, common on some of this genus, is not a frequent problem for this species. Rust and bag worms do sometimes occur. See the "Pests of Conifers" fact sheet to the left.

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common juniper diseases and insect pests.

More information on Juniperus communis var. communis.