Juniperus scopulorum Moonglow

Juniperus scopulorum 'Moonglow' is an elegant conifer derived from the Rocky Mountain juniper, also known as the Virginia juniper. It is an extremely decorative variety, due to its highly graphic pyramidal shape, and especially its original colour. Its evergreen foliage has an absolutely stunning silvery-blue hue and remains stable throughout the year. A prized piece for a contemporary garden, it will be enhanced by being planted in isolation and can also be the central element of a large variety of plants. 

Juniperus scopulorum is an evergreen conifer belonging to the Cupressaceae family, which includes related species such as cypresses and Chamaecyparis. It is native to North America, in a vast area ranging from Alberta to Texas, where it grows at altitudes above 1500m (4921ft 4in). It is therefore a robust and very hardy mountain species, but it fears wind, climates and excessively wet or dry atmospheres. In its natural environment, it has a cypress-like appearance. This species appreciates well-drained, even rocky soils and does not mind the presence of limestone in the soil.

The 'Moonglow' juniper forms a small tree with a pyramidal habit after 10 years. It is fast-growing (about 60cm (23.6in) per year) and reaches a height of 6m (19ft 8in) and a width of about 2m (6ft 7in). Its foliage consists of non-prickly, tightly packed scales that emit a resinous and aromatic scent when touched. The colour is an absolutely stunning silvery-blue, with a certain shine on the surface. It is said to reflect the brightness of the moon, hence its name 'Moonglow'. This evergreen foliage maintains the same colour throughout the year, making it a permanent decorative element in the garden.
From its mountain origins, this juniper derives great cold resistance (down to -30°C (-22 °F)). It is an undemanding conifer that thrives in any ordinary soil, even poor or limestone, as long as it is well-drained and not excessively dry. It tolerates partial shade but prefers full sun, which allows it to express all its aesthetic qualities.

The 'Moonglow' juniper is a hardy and elegant conifer widely planted in gardens for many years. It is a perfect choice for the garden due to its perfect habit and density. It is perfect everywhere, except in excessively arid or wet situations. Its surprising colour and almost perfect habit make it ideal for contemporary-inspired gardens. In this case, a light annual trimming with shears can create a completely geometric shape. It can be paired with topiaries in the shape of spheres, with a dark green colour to contrast with its beautiful silvery-blue. The classic but irreplaceable Lonicera nitida, fast-growing and forming beautiful balls up to 2m (6ft 7in) in diameter, can create a geometric scene suitable for modern architecture. With a more limited and slower growth, the Ligustrum japonicum 'Rotundifolium' can also accompany it with its dark green and glossy foliage, as well as the Osmanthus burkwoodii with its deliciously fragrant flowers. In large gardens, a striking contrast can be created by planting a Gleditsia triacanthos 'Sunburst' nearby, with its golden yellow foliage sufficiently permeable to the sun so as not to affect the colouration of 'Moonglow'.