Juniperus squamata aka Flaky Juniper

Juniperus squamata is an evergreen conifer in the cypress family. Common names include flaky juniper and singleseed juniper. Its native range runs from northern Afghanistan to China. It also grows in Bhutan, northern India, Nepal and Pakistan. In its native range, it occurs in mountain areas. The species itself is rare in gardens, though named forms grow there.

Most plants form low shrubs, but their shape varies widely. Some spread close to the ground; others grow upright. The RHS gives a garden height of 0.3–1.6 feet [0.1–0.5 metres]. Its listed spread reaches 4.9–8.2 feet [1.5–2.5 metres]. Other accounts describe much larger plants, reaching 25–40 feet [7.6–12 metres]. Growth ranges from slow to moderate. Plants may take 10–20 years to reach full size. The brown to red-brown bark sheds thin flakes. Bark stands out most on old, tall plants.

The pointed, awl-shaped needles grow in groups of three. They overlap along the stems and lack scale-like leaves. Their grey-green to blue-green colour can turn bronze or purple in winter. White bands mark the inner leaf surface. Dead needles may stay attached and spoil the plant's look. Male cones are yellow, while female cones are green. Both sexes may share one plant or grow on separate plants. The small seed cones turn from red-brown to near-black as they ripen. Each holds one seed. The RHS notes glossy cones from winter into early spring.

Give this juniper sun and soil that drains well. The RHS also allows partial shade. It accepts sandy, loamy, chalky and clay soils across a broad pH range. It tolerates drought and dry to moist ground. Sources disagree on heat: the RHS recommends hot, sunny sites. UConn and Oregon State warn against heat with high humidity. Hardiness ratings include USDA zones 4–7 and RHS H7. The RHS says routine pruning is not needed. Growers can raise new plants from semi-hardwood cuttings.

Garden uses include ground cover, group planting, hedges and containers. It also suits gravel gardens and coastal sites. Aphids, juniper scale, caterpillars and bagworms can attack it. Disease risks include phytophthora, canker and honey fungus. PFAF records no food uses and gives edibility a zero rating. The RHS warns that eating it can cause harm. Skin contact can also cause an allergic reaction. Wear gloves when handling it. PFAF records a traditional skin wash made from powdered plant material. It also records fragrant wood and leaves used as incense, and wood as fuel.