Juniperus rigida aka Temple Juniper

Juniperus rigida is known as needle juniper or temple juniper. This evergreen belongs to the cypress family, Cupressaceae. Its native range includes China, Korea, Japan, and southeastern Russia. It grows on hills and in dry mountain sites. In gardens, it forms a large shrub or small tree. Garden heights reach about 20–25 feet (6.1–7.62 metres). Its spread can reach 20 feet (6.1 metres). Oregon State reports taller trees near 30 feet (9–10 metres).

The crown has an open, uneven shape with upward-reaching branches. Older trees develop hanging branchlets that give a weeping form. The dull gray bark has fibres and shallow cracks. Sharp, stiff needles grow in groups of three. Their green shade ranges from bright to gray-green. Each needle has a narrow white band along its upper face. The needles stay on the plant through winter. Their sharp tips can make handling the branches awkward.

This conifer bears cones rather than flowers. Male and female cones usually grow on separate plants. Rare plants carry both types of cone. Small pollen cones sit singly where leaves join the stems. Female plants bear round, berry-like seed cones. These start green and darken as they ripen. Ripe cones range from blue-black to purple or black-brown. A waxy coat covers them, and ripening takes two years. Birds and some mammals eat the fruit.

Grow needle juniper in full sun and well-drained soil. It accepts many soil types, including clay and rocky ground. Dry to moderately moist soil suits it; wet soil does not. Established plants tolerate heat, drought, and some urban air pollution. Hardiness reports differ: Missouri Botanical Garden lists USDA zones 6–7. Chicago lists zones 6–8, while Oregon State reports zone 5 hardiness. The drooping form suits use as a single specimen or accent. Japanese temples and gardens grow it for its foliage and form. It also offers winter interest and resists deer.

Serious pest and disease trouble is not usual. Still, junipers can suffer needle blight, tip blight, and rust. Wet, poorly drained soil can lead to root rot. Canker may affect bark and main stems. Aphids, bagworms, webworms, and scale may also occur. Pollen from male trees can trigger allergies in some people. Plants For A Future reports no known hazards. It lists fruit for eating raw, cooking, or grinding into spice. It also lists fruit oil and a diuretic use. The wood serves for building, fences, and farm tools.