Emerald Sentinel Red Cedar

Emerald Sentinel Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana 'Emerald Sentinel')

Emerald Sentinel Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana 'Emerald Sentinel') is a handsome, upright evergreen valued for its deep green foliage, columnar shape, and heavy display of blue berries. This female cultivar combines refined appearance with rugged durability, offering reliable structure and four-season interest in residential and commercial landscapes alike.

Distinctive Features

'Emerald Sentinel' grows 15 to 25 feet tall and 5 to 8 feet wide, forming a dense, symmetrical column. The foliage is a rich emerald green that holds its color well through winter. In late summer, mature plants produce an abundance of silvery-blue berries that add ornamental appeal and attract birds. Its neat habit and attractive fruiting make it one of the best selections for narrow evergreen screening or specimen use.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Soil: Well-drained soil; tolerant of poor, dry, or rocky sites
• Water: Low; drought tolerant once established
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4�9

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Rich color and fruiting display provide striking vertical interest
• Privacy Screen: Dense form creates a year-round natural barrier
• Wildlife Gardens: Berries attract birds and other wildlife
• Formal Rows: Ideal for framing entrances, driveways, or property lines
• Windbreak: Durable structure performs well in exposed areas

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water regularly during establishment; little water needed afterward
• Pruning: Naturally tidy; prune only to shape or limit size if desired
• Fertilizing: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring
• Mulching: Helps retain soil moisture and minimize weeds
• Pest Resistance: Resistant to deer, pests, and air pollution

Why Choose Emerald Sentinel Eastern Red Cedar?

• Rich Evergreen Color: Holds deep green tones through all seasons
• Heavy Berry Production: Adds visual interest and supports local wildlife
• Columnar Shape: Perfect for screens, hedges, or tight spaces
• Tough and Adaptable: Handles heat, cold, and poor soils with ease
• Focal Point: Upright form and ornamental fruit create lasting impact in any setting

Juniperus virginiana 'Emerald Sentinel' offers a winning combination of beauty, resilience, and wildlife value, making it a smart choice for landscapes that need both structure and seasonal interest in a low-maintenance package.