The Andorra Juniper (Juniperus horizontalis 'Plumosa') is a woody shrub that belongs to the cypress family. It is a slow-growing, evergreen plant that can reach up to 2 feet in height and spread up to 8 feet wide. Pollination in Andorra Juniper occurs through wind pollination. The male cones, or strobili, produce pollen in the spring that is carried by the wind to the female cones. The female cones are small and dark-blue in color, and they take two years to mature. Although Andorra Junipers are not known for their ornamental flowers, they are an important source of food for birds and insects. The berries produced by the female cones are a food source for many species of birds, and the plant also attracts a variety of insects such as bees and butterflies. To promote cross-pollination in Andorra Junipers, it is recommended to plant both male and female cultivars in close proximity. Male cultivars can be identified by their smaller cones and the presence of pollen sacs on the underside of their leaves.

What is the Andorra Juniper?

The Andorra Juniper (Juniperus horizontalis 'Plumosa') is a low-growing evergreen tree belonging to the Cupressaceae family. It is a cultivar of the species Juniperus horizontalis which is native to North America.

How big can the Andorra Juniper grow?

The Andorra Juniper can grow up to 1-2 feet in height and up to 4-6 feet in width. It grows relatively slowly and is considered a small groundcover juniper.

What is the shape and color of the Andorra Juniper?

The Andorra Juniper has a prostrate, spreading habit with a unique textured appearance. The small, tiny leaves are scale-like and are evergreen, changing color from blue-green to bronze-tinged purple in winter. The plant also produces tiny blue-black berry-like cones in the summer.

How do I care for the Andorra Juniper?

The Andorra Juniper is highly adaptable and can grow in both full sun or partial shade. It prefers well-draining soil and does not tolerate constant moisture or standing water. It is also drought tolerant and does not require regular watering once established. Pruning can be done to remove dead or damaged branches or to maintain its shape.

What are some common uses for the Andorra Juniper?

The Andorra Juniper is an excellent choice for groundcover in rock gardens, borders, or as a low-maintenance shrub in landscaping. It also works well as a container plant or planted on slopes to control erosion.

Planting Andorra Juniper

Andorra Juniper can be planted in early spring or in fall. Choose a location where the plant can receive full sun to partial shade and has well-draining soil. Here are the steps to plant Andorra Juniper:

1. Dig a hole that is twice the size of the root ball of the plant.
2. Loosen the soil at the bottom of the hole and mix in some organic matter.
3. Place the plant in the hole and backfill it with soil, making sure that the soil level is even with the surrounding ground.
4. Water the plant thoroughly to settle the soil.

Caring for Andorra Juniper

Andorra Juniper is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care once established. Here are the care tips:

• Water the plant regularly during the first growing season, especially during hot and dry weather.
• Fertilize the plant with a slow-release fertilizer in spring.
• Prune the plant to shape it or to remove any dead or damaged branches. Pruning can be done in early spring or in fall.
• Cover the plant with a layer of mulch to suppress weeds and to retain soil moisture.
• Protect the plant from winter damage by covering it with burlap or by spraying it with an anti-desiccant.