Juniperus communis Goldschatz

Juniperus communis 'Goldschatz' is a common juniper particularly recommended for small gardens. Of relatively slow growth, it has a creeping habit and undulates on the surface of the ground. Its evergreen foliage has a bright yellow colour that is very attractive. Much wider than it is tall, it is a ground cover conifer perfect for rockeries, slopes, or adding interest to a terrace when planted in a pot or container. Easy to grow, it is cold hardy, withstands drought once established, and can thrive in poor, even limestone soil. It prefers sunny locations, but can tolerate temporary partial shade during the day.

Juniperus communis is an evergreen and spiny conifer belonging to the Cupressaceae family, which also includes related species such as cypresses and Chamaecyparis. It is native to northern Europe, North America, and Asia Minor. In its natural environment, it has a fairly variable habit, cone-shaped or spreading, reaching heights of 6 m (19.7 ft) and widths of 3 m to 4.5 m (9.8 ft to 14.5 ft). This species prefers poor, sandy and/or limestone soils and is not afraid of arid conditions.

'Goldschatz', derived from this species, has a much more moderate growth. After about ten years of planting, it will reach approximately 1 m to 1.5 m (3.3 ft to 4.9 ft) in width, with a height of only 20 cm (7.9 in). Spreading widely on the surface of the ground, it produces short, well-branched, golden-yellow shoots, giving it a slightly undulating appearance. The short leaves, 10 mm to 15 mm (0.4 in to 0.6 in) long, are narrow and pointed at their tips, and grow in groups of 3 on the stems. They are green, somewhat greyish at the base of the branches, and become yellow as they stretch out. This juniper's great adaptability allows it to thrive in most soils, including poor, neutral, or slightly acidic soils. Once established, it withstands drought well but also tolerates moist soil, provided it is well-drained, as it does not like excessive water. It prefers full sun but can tolerate a few hours of shade per day. Very hardy (down to -20° C (-4° F), it is an easy-to-grow plant that will suit most gardens.

'Goldschatz' lives up to its name ("treasure" in German) as it is truly a gem for the garden. A sunny rockery will be a perfect setting for it, as it can spread between the rocks and create a bright and pleasing spot. It will also fit well in a contemporary garden or a minimalist garden where dark materials, such as slate bars, are favoured. The bright yellow foliage will balance the dark shade of the rocks. Its creeping habit and golden colour will create beautiful combinations with dark green foliage, such as that of the superb Viburnum davidii (in neutral soil), which is evergreen and glossy. Mahonia aquifolium 'Apollo' offers tonal flowering and a foliage contrast throughout the seasons, as it changes from dark green in summer to purple in winter. Juniperus 'Blue Arrow' with its blue columnar form will provide a permanent backdrop to 'Goldschatz'. Albizia 'Summer Chocolate' will dominate it with a light shade that won't obstruct it, while creating a surprising contrast with its finely cut, almost black foliage that complements the bright yellow of the juniper.