Juniperus sabina Tamariscifolia

Juniperus sabina 'Tamariscifolia', also known as Tamarisk-leaved savin, is an evergreen bush with a spreading and low habit, with branches arranged in horizontal tiers and foliage that is very dense and curly but not prickly. Its precious foliage has a beautiful glaucous silver-green colour with bluish reflections all year round. This exceptional variety cascades down slopes, fits into rock gardens, or confidently fills a border in a small garden. It is a slow-growing conifer, but also an extremely hardy plant, perfectly adapted to wind, drought, and high altitudes. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, even poor, dry soil, and tolerates limestone.

Also known as Savin, Juniperus sabina is a mountain species native to cold regions of Europe (Andalusia, Turkey, Alps, Balkans), North Africa (Algeria and Morocco), and Asia. It can be found between altitudes of 1400 and 2750 metres (4600ft - 9020ft), but also in many parks and gardens at lower elevations where it has acclimated perfectly. It is a conifer with perfect hardiness (up to -40°C) and remarkable vigour belonging to the cypress family.

'Tamariscifolia' forms a beautiful dense and spreading shrub after a few years, measuring 80cm (31.5in) in height with a spread of 1.50 to 2m (5ft - 7ft 6in). It grows slowly when young, then its growth accelerates slightly with age. Its overlapping branches are covered with small scale-like leaves, tightly pressed in pairs on the upright branchlets, and emit a pleasant, penetrating, and aromatic scent when crushed. The fruits that form are flattened and spherical false berries called galbuli; they are bluish-black and pruinose when ripe, and rich in essential oil. Its reddish bark exfoliates with age. Junipers have a shallow root system that can sometimes make it difficult to associate them with perennials.

The Tamarisk-leaved juniper is an extraordinary small conifer, very frugal, that conquers even the most challenging areas of the garden as long as they are sunny. It can be fully embraced in a large slope, among rocks, above a wall or ledge, or near a swimming pool, as it blends well with geometric lines and masonry structures. It can be easily grown in pots and is well-suited for the art of bonsai. It can also be placed near a water feature, cascading down from a rocky scree. The graphic qualities of conifers naturally impose themselves in the design of a contemporary garden, which prefers the aesthetics of shapes, silhouettes, and textures over the dance of blooms. These plants, with their reassuring permanence, provide lasting structure to a bed, mark pathways, border terraces, easily replacing the strong presence of trimmed boxwood. They harmonize with wild grasses and heathers with highly complementary temperaments. The key is to play with volumes and colours.