Weeping Juniper
juniperus flaccida
Also known as: ["Weeping Juniper","Elbow Pine"]
Overview
A sprawling, evergreen shrub with drooping branches and scale-like leaves, native to Mexico and the southwestern United States.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Pinophyta |
| Class: | Pinopsida |
| Order: | Pinales |
| Family: | Cupressaceae |
| Genus: | Juniperus |
| Botanical Name: | Juniperus flaccida |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly sandy or loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- 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 to rejuvenate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy with insufficient light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to direct sun gradually over 1–2 weeks. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates to prevent scorching. Indoors, place near a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sun; avoid shaded corners.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; topdress with mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 7–9. Prefers temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged freezing.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; use a humidifier in dry indoor environments; monitor temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess nutrients.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or layering. Softwood cuttings root more reliably than hardwood.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower needles.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is semi-hard.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; avoid shearing to maintain natural form.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant to maintain density and remove dead or diseased branches. Encourages bushier growth and air circulation.
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; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and prevent root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; check for root rot; trim circling roots; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or compost to improve drainage and aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), bud drop, stunted growth, or browning foliage tips.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage, leaf drop, and reduced vigor. Prolonged freezing may lead to dieback.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; move potted plants to sheltered locations; use frost cloth for protection during freezes.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, and dehydration, especially in dry conditions.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; increase watering frequency; use reflective mulch to reduce soil temperature.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid winter feeding; follow label instructions.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if needed. Avoid fertilizing in late fall or winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Juniperus flaccida. The berries and needles can cause irritation to the digestive tract, leading to symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. The toxicity is generally low, but caution is advised.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Juniperus flaccida can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The berries and needles contain compounds that may irritate the digestive system, leading to discomfort. The effects are typically not severe but can cause distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicJuniperus flaccida contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in some individuals. The berries and needles are the primary toxic parts, with the berries being more commonly ingested. The physiological impact is generally limited to mild irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Juniperus flaccida toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How much water does this plant need?
A: It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering once established.
Q: Does it attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cupressaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| 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
