Juniperus chinensis 'Hetzi Columnaris'
Overall Description
A
very large, upright juniper cultivar with a very rigid, prickly feel to
it. The foliage is a nice green color - more green with a hint of
gray to it in the winter. Commonly used as a privacy screen or windbreak. Heavy
fruit/cone/berry producer, and has very aromatic foliage when rubbed or
crushed. Enjoys full to part sun, and withstands a variety of harsh
conditions. Good growth rate. Very hardy variety!!!
Makes an excellent screen / border planting. Good numbers of bluish
purple berries in winter provide seasonal interest, and are a good
contrast against the deep gray/green foliage. Performs exceptionally well in the high heat & humidity of the southeast.
Plant Facts & Specifications
Mature Height: 10-15 ft ( some reports of up to 20 ft or so after about 15-20 yrs )
Mature Width: 5-8 ft
Growth rate: Moderate to fast ( 6"-18" avg per yr )
Hardiness Zones: 3-9 ( if unsure of your zone, please use zone finder below )
Sun Exposure: Full sun preferred, but will tolerate some partial shade as well. Best foliage density, growth rate, and color in full sun.
Soil Preference: Average
to slightly acidic & sandy - well drained. Will adapt to a fairly
wide range of soil types. Adequate drainage is a must though.
Foliage Color & Texture: Very
stiff, rigid, prickly foliage is quite intimidating - which helps it
make a great screening / border choice. Color is a good dark green
base, with just a slight amount of bronzing in the winter months.
Flower, Cone, Or Berry Facts:
This variety is known to be an extremely good producer of juniper
berries. Mature specimens are loaded with dark bluish colored berries
on a yearly basis. Cones are oftentimes seen on this variety as well.
Diseases / Insects:
Rather trouble free juniper - but
Phomopsis
& Kabatina blights have been observed on specimens if maintained in
overly wet / moist conditions for an extended period of time
Fertilization / Feeding: For maximum health & color, we highly recommend POOPeas Organic Fertilizer & Soil Amendment.
However, either water soluble ( Miracle Gro, or equivalent ), or
granular fertilizers ( Holly Tone is excellent ) are also good options. Most any granular fertilizers with a 6-12-12, or
10-10-10 ratio are also acceptable. Best to fertilize in early spring,
and again in mid fall - avoid feeding standard chemical fertilizers
during hot summer months, and directly after transplanting. POOPeas may be used at anytime.
