Great Plant Pick: Hollywood Juniper

Juniperus chinensis ‘Kaizuka’ makes a striking specimen in the garden because of its upward twisting growth habit.

  • Wednesday, August 30, 2023 1:30am
  • Life

What: Juniperus chinensis ‘Kaizuka,’ or Hollywood Juniper, makes a striking specimen in the garden because of its upward twisting growth habit and its spreading, dense, irregular growth. This evergreen conifer has blue-green cones and a combination of juvenile and adult foliage. It also has scale-like vivid green leaves and produces many glaucous berries. Junipers are among the toughest plants for the landscape and this one is no exception.

Where: This tough juniper grows best in well-drained or sandy soil, although it will tolerate clay if the drainage is adequate. Plant in a full sun location; in very well-drained or sandy soils it can tolerate open or light shade. It is also salt tolerant so makes a good selection for the seaside. It looks good when combined with low growing groundcovers such as Viburnum davidii or Cotoneaster adpressus ‘Little Gem.’

Size: Grows to 15 feet tall by 10 feet wide in 10 years.

Care: Once established, it is completely drought tolerant. It has a naturally graceful form that can be ruined if it is not pruned well. Consult an experienced pruner or take local classes before attempting to prune. To reduce the need for pruning place in a location with ample space.

— greatplantpicks.org

Talk to us

> Give us your news tips.

> Send us a letter to the editor.

> More Herald contact information.

More in Life

The Mukilteo Boulevard Homer on Monday, May 12, 2025 in Everett, Washington. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
‘Homer Hedge’: A Simpsons meme takes root in Everett — D’oh!

Homer has been lurking in the bushes on West Mukilteo Boulevard since 2023. Stop by for a selfie.

Former Herald writer Melissa Slager’s new book was 14-year project

The 520-page historical novel “Contests of Strength” covers the 1700 earthquake and tsunami on Makah lands.

Kyle Parker paddles his canoe along the Snohomish River next to Langus Riverfront Park on Thursday, May 8, 2025 in Everett, Washington. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
Tip to Tip: Kyle Parker begins his canoe journey across the country

The 24-year-old canoe fanatic started in Neah Bay and is making his way up the Skykomish River.

Ellis Johnson, 16, left, and brother Garrett Johnson, 13, take a breather after trying to find enough water to skim board on without sinking into the sand during opening day of Jetty Island on Friday, July 5, 2019 in Everett, Wash. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
Epic ways to spice up your summer

Your ultimate guide to adventure, fun and reader-approved favorites!

Sarah and Cole Rinehardt, owners of In The Shadow Brewing, on Wednesday, March 12, 2025 in Arlington, Washington. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
In The Shadow Brewing: From backyard brews to downtown cheers

Everything seems to have fallen into place at the new taproom location in downtown Arlington

Swedish-made XC90 Designed For All Seasons
2025 Volvo XC90 T8 AWD Ultra – The Best Gets Better

Swedish Luxury Hybrid SUV Includes All-Electric Miles

Steven M. Falk / The Philadelphia Inquirer / Tribune News Service
James Taylor plays Sunday and Monday at Chateau Ste. Michelle in Woodinville.
A&E Calendar

Send calendar submissions for print and online to features@heraldnet.com. To ensure your… Continue reading

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e plug-in hybrid compact luxury SUV, shown here in the European version (Provided by Mercedes-Benz).
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e PHEV has a 54-mile range

The plug-in hybrid compact luxury SUV goes a class-leading distance in full electric mode.

RAV4 Hybrid XSE AWD photo provided by Toyota USA Newsroom
2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Provides 39 MPG And 566-Mile Range

Versatile And Functional Compact SUV A Family Pleaser

Auston James / Village Theatre
“Jersey Boys” plays at Village Theatre in Everett through May 25.
A&E Calendar for May 15

Send calendar submissions for print and online to features@heraldnet.com. To ensure your… Continue reading

Photo provided by Subaru U.S. Media Center
Subaru Adds Bronze And Onyx Trims to 2025 Ascent

Three-Row Family SUV Delivers Equal Parts Safety And Comfort

Photo courtesy of Historic Everett Theatre
The Elvis Challenge takes place Saturday at the Historic Everett Theatre.
A&E Calendar for May 8

Send calendar submissions to features@heraldnet.com. To ensure your item is seen by… Continue reading

Support local journalism

If you value local news, make a gift now to support the trusted journalism you get in The Daily Herald. Donations processed in this system are not tax deductible.