Grey Owl Eastern Red Cedar

Grey Owl Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana 'Grey Owl')

Grey Owl Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana 'Grey Owl') is a broad, spreading evergreen shrub known for its soft, silvery-gray foliage and graceful horizontal habit. This low-growing female cultivar offers four-season texture, subtle color contrast, and excellent adaptability, making it ideal for foundation plantings, slopes, or wildlife-friendly gardens.

Distinctive Features

'Grey Owl' typically grows 2 to 3 feet tall and spreads 6 to 8 feet wide, forming a wide, mounding silhouette. The fine-textured, scale-like foliage has a distinct silvery hue that stands out in mixed plantings. In fall and winter, mature plants produce small, blue, berry-like cones that add interest and attract birds. Its soft color and low profile give it a natural elegance well-suited to informal designs.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to light shade
• Soil: Well-drained soil; tolerant of clay, sand, and rocky soils
• Water: Low; very drought tolerant once established
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4�9

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Silvery foliage adds color contrast and horizontal structure in planting beds
• Foundation Planting: Softens architecture with fine texture and spreading form
• Slopes and Banks: Effective groundcover with erosion control benefits
• Wildlife Gardens: Berries attract birds and provide winter food sources
• Mass Planting: Uniform growth habit works well in large drifts

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water during establishment; drought tolerant after
• Pruning: Little needed; may be trimmed to shape or control spread
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring
• Mulching: Helps retain moisture and suppress weeds
• Pest Resistance: Deer resistant and generally free of pest issues

Why Choose Grey Owl Eastern Red Cedar?

• Silvery-Gray Foliage: Offers year-round color and soft texture
• Wide, Spreading Habit: Excellent for groundcover and layered planting designs
• Wildlife Friendly: Produces berries that attract and feed birds
• Tough and Adaptable: Performs well in challenging sites and dry conditions
• Focal Point: Distinct foliage color and low profile create elegant contrast in mixed borders or foundation areas

Juniperus virginiana 'Grey Owl' is a versatile, low-maintenance evergreen that brings soft color, horizontal structure, and ecological value to a wide range of landscape applications.