Greek juniper (Juniperus excelsa)
Care, watering, light and tips for Greek juniper on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Cupressaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 15 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Greek juniper
Juniperus excelsa, also known as the Grecian Juniper, is an evergreen conifer characterized by its columnar or pyramidal shape and dense, blue-green foliage. Its small, scale-like leaves give it a fine and elegant texture. It is ideal for tall hedges, as a solitary specimen in Mediterranean gardens, or in large pots for patios.
Native range
Eastern Mediterranean region, from Greece to the Caucasus and Southwest Asia.
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal growth and prefers well-drained soils, even poor or calcareous ones, tolerating drought well once established. Watering should be moderate, especially in the first few years; avoid waterlogging as it is susceptible to root rot. A common mistake is planting it in excessive shade or in heavy, poorly drained soils, which will compromise its health and shape. It hardly needs pruning, except to maintain the desired form.
How to save a dying Greek juniper
- Warning signs
- Yellowish/brown needles falling, dry branches, straw-like appearance.
- First aid
- Check drainage. If potted, consider repotting or planting in ground. Water deeply if soil is dry.
- What kills it
- Overwatering (root rot) or prolonged extreme drought. Doesn't tolerate waterlogging or heavy soil.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted and some green foliage remains. Act quickly.