Junipers, Living Screens for Hot Dry Locations

Create a durable evergreen screen in hot sunny areas with one of the many upright junipers.

A relatively new introduction, Star Power juniper has striking bluish green star shaped foliage. The prickly juvenile growth adds interest to the landscape and increases its deer resistance. Hardy to zone 3, this fast growing plant will reach 5 to 7 feet in 5 years and eventually mature to 17 feet in height.

Spartan Chinese juniper has rich green needles and grows up to 15 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide. It is hardy in zones 4 to 9 and is excellent as an accent plant, screen or windbreak.

For a narrower evergreen try Skyrocket juniper (J. scopulorum 'Skyrocket'). The blue-gray spire grows up to 15 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide. It grows in zones 4 to 9. Grow several in a group for a colorful screen or vertical accent.

A bit more information: These upright evergreens make a great backdrop for deciduous shrubs and perennials. Use them in mixed borders for year round greenery and seasonal interest.