Botanical profile

Juniperus chinensis 'Gnom'

Latin name
Juniperus chinensis 'Gnom'
Common name
Juniper 'Gnom'
Type
Conifer / Shrub
Family
Cupressaceae

Juniperus chinensis 'Gnom' is a dwarf evergreen conifer with a naturally narrow, columnar habit, perfect for small spaces, rock gardens, borders, or container plantings. This juniper, with its dense gray-green foliage, maintains its compact form without pruning, offering a stable vertical structure in landscape designs. Very hardy, it tolerates cold climates down to -45°C, and prefers full sun exposure in well-drained, even poor, soil. When mature, it produces small dark blue berries that add winter interest while being appreciated by wildlife. Thanks to its slow growth, 'Gnom' requires little maintenance and easily integrates into formal, contemporary, or natural gardens looking for a discreet and durable vertical accent.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 3
Exposure
Sun
Watering
Moderate, well-drained
Fertilization
Compost in the spring if needed
Soil type
Well-drained, tolerates various soils
Minimum temperature
-40 °C (-40 °F)
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Spring
Flower color
Not significant (conifer)
Fruiting
Decorative dark blue berries
Foliage color
Grey-green
Foliage type
Persistent
Shape
Erect, columnar
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
0.9 m (3 ft)
Width
4 ft (1.2 m)
Growth rate
Slow
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.