Juniperus davurica ‘Parsoni’, commonly known as Parson’s Juniper or simply Parsoni Juniper, is a low-growing evergreen shrub appreciated for its fine texture and ease of maintenance. Here are the specifics:
Care:
Light: Full sun to partial shade. It prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth.
Soil: Well-drained soil is essential. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy or rocky soils, but good drainage is crucial.
Watering: Once established, it is drought-tolerant and generally requires minimal watering. Water deeply but infrequently.
Fertilizer: Generally not necessary in well-balanced soil. If needed, a slow-release fertilizer formulated for evergreens can be applied in spring.
Pruning: Prune selectively to maintain desired shape and size. Avoid heavy pruning into old wood, as it may not regenerate well from bare stems.
Size:
Height: Typically grows 1 to 2 feet tall, with a spread of 4 to 6 feet.
Spread: Forms a spreading mound with a low, mounding growth habit.
Flowers and Fruits:
Flowers: Insignificant small yellow flowers appear in spring. They are not ornamental and are often unnoticed.
Fruits: Small, bluish-black berries (cones) may follow the flowers. They are attractive to birds but are generally not a prominent feature of the plant’s ornamental value.
Hardiness Zone:
USDA hardiness zones 4 to 9. Parsoni Juniper is quite cold-hardy and can withstand temperatures down to -30°F (-34°C).
Landscaping Use:
Ground Cover: Ideal as a ground cover due to its spreading habit and dense foliage.
Erosion Control: Useful for stabilizing slopes or controlling erosion on hillsides.
Rock Gardens: Fits well in rock gardens or dry, low-maintenance landscapes.
Border Plant: Suitable for edging borders or along pathways where its low height and spreading habit create a carpet-like effect.
Additional Tips:
Pests and Diseases: Generally pest-resistant and disease-resistant when grown in well-drained soil. Proper air circulation around the plant can help prevent fungal issues.
Deer Resistance: Known to be deer-resistant due to its aromatic foliage.
Propagation: Can be propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings in summer or by layering.
Winter Care: Generally requires little winter protection but can benefit from a layer of mulch to protect roots in colder climates.
Parsoni Juniper is valued for its low-maintenance nature, drought tolerance, and year-round interest with its dense, evergreen foliage. It’s a versatile plant that can be used effectively in various landscape designs, especially where low ground cover or erosion control is needed.