Plant library · Conifers & Evergreens
Juniperus horizontalis
Creeping Juniper is a low, evergreen groundcover that stays close to the ground while spreading broadly across open soil. At about 1 foot tall and up to 8 feet wide, it reads as a horizontal planting rather than a border shrub. Use it where a durable, year-round mat can occupy a large area without blocking views, especially in sunny, dry-facing parts of the plan.
Set creeping juniper on slopes, rocky banks, retaining-wall edges, and broad beds where its trailing branches can run outward without meeting a path too soon. Its low profile suits the front of sunny foundation beds and the open ground around boulders, but give it a clear edge rather than forcing it into a narrow strip. It is also useful on exposed, dry sites where a spreading evergreen groundcover can hold the visual line through winter.[1][2][3]
Space plants 5 feet apart, center to center, to establish a connected groundcover planting. Each plant can ultimately spread about 8 feet wide, so neighboring branches may overlap as the planting fills in. Keep the planting line set back from paths, steps, and lawn edges by several feet; mature stems can extend well beyond the original planting holes and make close maintenance access awkward.
Give this groundcover full sun and well-drained soil. It is suited to dry conditions and can handle relatively poor or sandy ground, making it a practical choice for lean, fast-draining parts of the garden. Avoid low spots and compacted pockets that stay wet, particularly where runoff collects beside foundations, downspouts, or hardscape.[1][2][3]
The evergreen mat keeps its presence when herbaceous groundcovers are dormant, so reserve its full footprint year-round rather than treating the space as open after fall. Foliage may take on purplish tones in winter. Place it where winter color variation will feel intentional, such as along stone, gravel, or the front edge of a mixed evergreen bed.[1][2]
Do not use creeping juniper as a narrow edging plant or tuck it between closely spaced perennials. Its broad, trailing habit needs lateral clearance and can cover small plants placed within its eventual spread. In wet, poorly drained ground, choose another groundcover or improve drainage before planting.[1][2]
Editorial content updated 2026-07-20.