Juniperus virginiana 'Grey Owl'

‘Grey Owl’ juniper is an evergreen shrub in the cypress family (Cupressaceae). This plant is thought to be a hybrid of different juniper species, but in the horticulture trade, it is usually listed as a cultivar of eastern redcedar.

This juniper is easily grown in dry to moist, well-drained soils of average fertility in full sun. It will grow slowly up to 3 feet in height and spread to a width of 6 feet. It tolerates a broad range of soils and environments, including urban areas with some air pollution. It is also deer tolerant. This shrub prefers moist conditions but is intolerant of continuously wet soils. Plant between 6 and 12 feet apart.

This small shrub is low to the ground with unusual thread-like, silvery blue-gray needles that lie close together. The branch tips may become purple throughout the winter months. It produces berry-like cones that attract birds.

Plant this shrub in a lawn or along a slope or bank. It is appropriate for smaller spaces and makes a good border planting. It is also at home in an Asian, rock, or winter garden.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Juniper species are susceptible to infestation by aphids, bagworms, caterpillars, false spider mites, juniper scale, juniper tip mite, juniper webworm, and spruce spider mites. This shrub and its cultivars are susceptible to Cercospora needle blight, Phomopsis, and other blights, as well as some fungal diseases. It shares with apple trees susceptibility to a rust fungus called Gymnosporangium juniperi-virginianae. This fungus causes "cedar apples" on juniper twigs and dark leaf spots on apple leaves. 

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

VIDEO Created by Elizabeth Meyer for "Trees, Shrubs and Conifers" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.

More information on Juniperus virginiana.