Common Juniper Juniperus communis 'Compressa'
ABOUT
Juniperus communis 'Compressa', commonly known as the Common Juniper, is a dense, slow-growing conifer with a distinct columnar shape. Its appearance is characterized by tightly packed, needle-like foliage that provides a rich texture. The needles themselves are typically a deep green color, which can take on a bluish or silvery tint, especially during the colder months. These needles are arranged in whorls around the branches, creating an overall aesthetic that is both neat and compact. The Common Juniper often has a sharp, almost prickly feel due to the pointed tips of its needles. Periodically, it produces small, berry-like cones that are initially green, turning to a more bluish-black hue as they mature. These berry-like structures are actually modified cones and are a distinguishing feature, providing an additional ornamental quality to the plant. The plant's overall form is upright, contributing to its popularity in gardens where a vertical accent is desired. Its tight growth habit and appealing coloration make it an excellent choice for creating focal points in landscape design without occupying a lot of space. The columnar form remains consistent throughout the seasons, making the Common Juniper an enduring presence in any outdoor setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Cupressaceae
Synonyms
Dwarf Juniper, Compressa Juniper, Compressed Common Juniper
Common names
Juniperus nana Willd., Juniperus communis var. nana (Willd.) Syme, Juniperus sibirica Burgsd., Juniperus communis var. saxatilis Pall., Juniperus communis var. depressa Pursh, Juniperus communis subsp. alpina (L.) Čelak., Juniperus alpina L., Juniperus communis var. montana Aiton, Juniperus communis var. alpina (L.) Lawalrée, Juniperus communis subsp. nana (Willd.) Syme.
ToxicityTo humans
Common Juniper when ingested in large quantities can be toxic to humans. It contains various compounds that can cause symptoms such as kidney damage, digestive disturbances, or irritation to the gastrointestinal tract. In severe cases, it might lead to more serious symptoms such as seizures or changes in heart rhythm.
To pets
Common Juniper is also toxic to pets if ingested. Animals that consume parts of this plant may experience vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain. In some cases, more severe symptoms like kidney or liver damage may occur, especially if large amounts are eaten. Pet owners should prevent their animals from consuming the plant to avoid these potential health issues.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Height
3-5 feet (0.9-1.5 meters)
Spread
1 foot (0.3 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
2-6
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Low Maintenance – 'Compressa' is a hardy plant requiring minimal care once established in the landscape.
- Drought Tolerant – It is tolerant of dry conditions, making it suitable for regions with low rainfall.
- Attractive Foliage – The plant offers year-round interest with its aesthetically pleasing, dense, blue-green foliage.
- Compact Size – It has a narrow, columnar growth habit that makes it suitable for small gardens or tight spaces.
- Wildlife Habitat – It provides shelter and food for birds and other wildlife throughout the year.
- Soil Adaptability – It can grow in a range of soil types, from clay to sandy soils.
- Windbreak – Due to its dense growth, it can act as a protective windbreak for gardens and landscapes.
- Architectural Plant – Its unique shape and texture make it an excellent choice for architectural and formal garden designs.
- Erosion Control – The plant’s rooting system helps stabilize slopes and prevent soil erosion.
Medical Properties- Antiseptic: Juniper oil, extracted from Juniperus communis, has antiseptic properties.
- Diuretic: It is traditionally used to promote urinary tract health and stimulate urine flow.
- Antirheumatic: Juniper has been used historically to help relieve rheumatic pain.
- Antispasmodic: The plant is known to ease muscle spasms.
- Carminative: It helps to relieve flatulence.
- Stomachic: It is thought to improve digestion and relieve stomach issues.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Juniper berries from Juniperus communis 'Compressa' are used to flavor meats, sauces, and stuffings, adding a sharp, clear flavor to culinary dishes.
- The wood of Juniperus communis 'Compressa' can be used for carving small objects or making wooden jewelry due to its fine grain and durability.
- Dried juniper branches and berries are often used in floral arrangements or as potpourri due to their distinctive scent and decorative appearance.
- The plant can be utilized in landscaping as a ground cover to control erosion on slopes or banks thanks to its dense growth habit.
- Juniper berries can be used as a natural dye, producing colors ranging from shades of green to violet depending on the mordant used.
- Culinary enthusiasts sometimes use Juniperus communis 'Compressa' berries to smoke or grill foods, imparting a unique flavor to meats and vegetables.
- The essential oil derived from juniper berries and foliage is used in perfumery and as a scent component in soaps and personal care products.
- Juniper wood shavings and branches can be added to animal bedding for horses or small mammals to repel insects and provide a pleasing aroma.
- In textile crafts, such as felting or weaving, Juniperus communis 'Compressa' can be incorporated for its texture and natural beauty.
- Bonsai enthusiasts may use Juniperus communis 'Compressa' for its suitability in creating miniature tree landscapes and its slow-growing nature.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Common Juniper is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Common Juniper is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection: The juniper plant has been used historically to ward off evil spirits and protect against negative energies.
- Cleansing: Juniper is often associated with cleansing rituals and was burned to purify spaces and people.
- Healing: Due to its therapeutic properties, juniper symbolizes healing and has been used in traditional medicine.
- Endurance: The hardy nature of the juniper plant represents endurance and the ability to thrive in challenging conditions.
WaterCommon Juniper, or Compressa, should be watered thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. In general, this might mean watering approximately every one to two weeks, depending on local climate conditions and the plant's exposure. It is important to use well-draining soil to prevent root rot. During the growing season, a rough estimate might be about one gallon of water for outdoor plants every week or two, but always adjust based on the soil's dryness. Be cautious not to overwater, as Compressa Juniper is drought-tolerant once established and does not like soggy roots.
LightCompressa Juniper thrives best in full sun conditions, which means it should receive at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. It can tolerate partial shade, but its growth may be less vigorous. The ideal spot for this plant would be in an unobstructed area where it has clear exposure to the sun's rays for most of the day.
TemperatureCompressa Juniper is hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures, typically between -40 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Ideal growing conditions are within the range of 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They are very cold-hardy and can easily survive cold winters, making them ideal for landscapes in many Northern regions.
PruningCompressa Juniper requires minimal pruning, generally done to maintain its columnar shape or to remove damaged or diseased branches. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. An annual light trim is usually sufficient, but remember that Junipers do not regenerate from old wood, so avoid cutting into the bare part of branches.
CleaningNot needed
SoilThe Dwarf Juniper prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with a pH range of slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0). The best soil mix can be made by combining equal parts of peat, sand, and garden soil which ensures good drainage while retaining enough moisture.
RepottingDwarf Junipers typically need repotting every 2 to 3 years to prevent root bound conditions and to replenish nutrients in the soil, though mature plants can be repotted less frequently.
Humidity & MistingDwarf Juniper thrives in low to moderate humidity levels and does not require high humidity, making it well-suited for most outdoor environments where it can receive natural rainfall.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, cool temps, and minimal water.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-drained soil, water moderately.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleJuniperus communis 'Compressa', commonly known as Dwarf Juniper, begins its life cycle when seeds germinate, typically requiring stratification to break dormancy. Seedlings emerge and grow slowly, developing into juvenile plants with a compact, conical shape. The Dwarf Juniper reaches maturity in several years, developing scale-like leaves and a woody stem. Once mature, it produces small flowers; male plants bear pollen cones, while female plants develop seed cones. Pollination occurs typically through wind dispersal, allowing female cones to produce seeds. The plant has a long lifespan, often living for decades, during which it can repeatedly produce cones and seeds, perpetuating its life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Propogation: The common juniper 'Compressa' is typically propagated through cuttings, which is the most popular method for this plant. This is done by taking semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer. The cuttings, which should be about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long, are taken from the current year's growth. The lower needles are removed, and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. Then, the cuttings are placed in a well-draining potting mix, ensuring high humidity and warmth to facilitate rooting. Adequate moisture is maintained, and within a few weeks to months, the cuttings will root, ready to be potted up individually once they have developed a strong root system.
