Savin Juniper
juniperus sabina
Also known as: ["Savin","Common Savin"]
Overview
A low-growing, spreading evergreen shrub with needle-like leaves and small, berry-like cones.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Pinophyta |
| Class: | Pinopsida |
| Order: | Pinales |
| Family: | Cupressaceae |
| Genus: | Juniperus |
| Botanical Name: | Juniperus sabina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in open, sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–25–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly alkaline soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; ensure good air circulation to prevent scorching.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; water deeply to encourage root growth.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate fertility
pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to slightly alkaline).
Use a cactus or succulent mix; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C). Tolerates cold but avoid prolonged frost.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (softwood or semi-hardwood).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is present.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F or 18–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of individual branches; avoid shearing to maintain natural form.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage denser growth, and remove dead or diseased branches.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; prune roots if necessary; use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Potted junipers benefit from root pruning.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; prune roots; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water until it drains from the bottom, but avoid waterlogging. Early morning watering is ideal to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, needle drop, stunted growth, or browning of foliage.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage, slow growth, and increase susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Protect from frost with burlap or mulch; move potted plants to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, needle scorch, and wilting.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; use correct dilution; avoid foliage contact; flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if needed. Avoid fertilizing in late autumn or winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to toxicity from Juniperus sabina, with ingestion leading to gastrointestinal irritation and potential kidney issues. The toxic compounds in the berries and leaves can be particularly harmful to feline physiology.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Juniperus sabina can lead to gastrointestinal upset and potential kidney damage due to the plant's toxic compounds. The berries and leaves are particularly harmful.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicJuniperus sabina contains toxic compounds, particularly in its berries and leaves, which can cause significant physiological distress when ingested. The plant's essential oils and alkaloids are known to irritate the gastrointestinal tract and may affect the kidneys and liver.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Juniperus sabina toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Savin Juniper require much maintenance?
A: No, it is a low-maintenance plant.
Q: Can Juniperus sabina grow in shade?
A: Yes, it is shade tolerant.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cupressaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
