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Sierra Juniper

Juniperus grandis

Also known as Grand Juniper

tree☀️ full sun💧 low water❄ Hardy: Zone 3b – Zone 9b

Climate Match for your location

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A native Sierra Nevada conifer with soft, feathery blue-green foliage that develops purplish tones in winter. Extremely drought-tolerant and cold-hardy, ideal for high-elevation gardens.

Why grow it

Sierra juniper offers a narrower, more columnar form than many native western junipers, making it useful where vertical accent is needed in drought-prone landscapes. Its cold hardiness to high elevations and minimal water requirements once established make it a lower-maintenance alternative to ornamental conifers that demand more irrigation in arid regions.

Watch out for

This species prefers well-draining soil and can struggle in poorly drained sites or areas with summer humidity. Young plants benefit from moderate water during establishment, typically one to two years, before becoming fully self-sufficient in appropriate climates.

Overview

Form
columnar to pyramidal
Growth Rate
slow
Size
40–33′ tall × 15–25′ wide
Dormancy
evergreen
Family
Cupressaceae
WindbreakErosion control
Coppicing

Native to the United States

Native Range

Sierra Nevada mountains, California

Native to: California, Nevada

Seasonality

Bloom Season

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Season of Interest

Winter

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Companion Planting

Plants well with