How Deep Are Creeping Juniper Roots?

Roots

• Creeping junipers have extensive but shallow root systems. Most have a major set of roots that extend downward from the center of the plant. Sometimes, this includes a taproot. Many creeping junipers also have roots that extend from the branch tips. These are called adventitious, which means they sprout from the outer parts of the plant. Still other creeping junipers have horizontal roots that stretch out from the main stem of the plant. In measurements taken by the U.S. Forest Service, main and taproots were found to extend to depths of between 5 and 14 inches, with an average depth of 8.8 inches. Creeping shrubs without a taproot were found to have adventitious roots that extended for up to 15 feet, with most lying less than 5 inches below the surface.

Appearance

• Creeping junipers form a dense mat that sits on the surface of the soil. Most are about a foot in height, with a maximum spread of about 10 feet per plant. In the summer, the foliage is true green, but this varies widely according to cultivar. In the winter, the foliage often turns a shade of purple. Creeping junipers grow about 15 inches per year and can be pruned to control for size.

Climate & Culture

• Because the roots are shallow, they are more susceptible to rotting if the soil is overly wet. These plants prefer soil soil on the dry side. Once established, they can tolerate extreme periods of drought. Creeping junipers will adapt and thrive in just about any type of soil as long as they are located in full sunlight. In the shade, the lush, thick foliage will take on a spindly appearance. The plants are hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 through 10 and will grow at high altitudes.

Cultivars

• Creeping junipers vary in growth habit, foliage color and size. Some, such as Juniperus horizontalis "Prince of Wales," have bluish-green foliage. "Prince of Wales" is a smaller cultivar, growing to a maximum height and width of about 6 inches and 6 feet, respectively. It is hardy in USDA zones 3 through 9. Other cultivars are desirable for their golden foliage. "Mother Lode" has very light yellow-green foliage in the summer that deepens to golden bronze in the winter. It grows to an average height of 6 inches, with a width of 10 feet, and is hardy in USDA zones 3 through 9.