Botanical profile

Juniperus chinensis 'San Jose'

Latin name
Juniperus chinensis 'San Jose'
Common name
Chinese Juniper 'San Jose'
Type
Shrubby conifer
Family
Cupressaceae

Juniperus chinensis ‘San Jose’ is a vigorous, ornamental, shrubby juniper, valued for its strong spreading habit and dense, highly structural blue-green foliage. This variety is distinguished by its broad, tiered growth, forming a robust shrub that is wider than it is tall, ideal for large beds, low screens, slopes, and specimen plantings. Its evergreen foliage, composed of fine, slightly prickly needles, maintains a strong blue-green color all year round, providing a powerful visual presence even in winter. Highly drought-tolerant once established and perfectly suited to poor, well-drained soils, ‘San Jose’ is renowned for its longevity and exceptional cold hardiness. Undemanding and very reliable, it is an excellent choice for sustainably structuring northern landscapes requiring volume, stability, and low maintenance.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 4
Exposure
Sun
Watering
Weak
Fertilization
Low, rarely needed
Soil type
Well-drained, tolerates poor and chalky soils
Minimum temperature
-35°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Spring
Flower color
Not specified
Fruiting
Small decorative blue-grey berries
Foliage color
Blue-green
Foliage type
Persistent
Shape
Spreading, dense, and vigorous shrub
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
1.5–2 m (5–6.5 ft)
Width
3–4 m (10–13 ft)
Growth rate
Moderate
Pet friendly
Safe for pets

Pets

Deer
Less attractive or generally tolerated by deer

Deer

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.