Juniperus (Juniper) is a genus comprising about 50-67 species of conifers in cypress family of Cupressaceae, widely distributed throughout the northern hemisphere. Junipers are evergreen conifers with year round foliage and structure and varied in shapes and sizes. They can be tall trees of 20-40 m tall or low spreading shrubs with long trailing branches. Their leaves are needle-like and/or scale-like.
Junipers are easy to grow and will grow in almost any soil, in full sun or light shade and well-drained soil. Aphids and honey fungus are its pest and disease. Rarely needs pruning. They can be grown as ornamental plants or as ground cover. Many plants that are grown today are cultivars of Juniperus communis. J.chinensis ( Chinese Juniper) are widely used in landscaping and horticulture and also one of the most popular species for use in bonsai. It is a symbol of longevity, strength, fertility and athleticism.
Propagation is through ripe seed or ripewood cuttings in early autumn.
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Jurgen
