Casino Gold Chinese Juniper

Casino Gold Chinese Juniper (Juniperus chinensis 'Casino Gold')

Casino Gold Chinese Juniper, Juniperus chinensis 'Casino Gold', is a compact, low growing evergreen shrub prized for its lacy golden foliage and easy going nature in full sun. Soft, finely textured sprays of needles emerge bright yellow gold on the outer tips and settle to green gold inside the plant, creating a layered, two tone effect that stands out against darker shrubs, brick, or stone. With its naturally rounded, spreading habit and cheerful color that reads well from a distance, Casino Gold brings year round brightness and a ready made focal point to sunny beds, slopes, and foundation plantings without demanding constant attention.

Distinctive Features

Casino Gold Chinese Juniper forms a compact mound that typically matures around 2 to 3 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide, keeping a neat outline without heavy pruning. Arching branches are cloaked in lacy, scale like foliage that stays dense all the way to the ground, so there are no bare legs or gaps to hide. The golden color is most intense on fresh growth in full sun and holds well through the seasons, giving you warm, glowing contrast in mixed borders and evergreen groupings. Tough, adaptable, and naturally resistant to browsing, this shrub delivers both decorative appeal and practical performance in home landscapes and commercial sites.

Growing Conditions

• Light: Prefers full sun for best golden color and dense growth; too much shade leads to greener foliage and a looser habit.
• Soil: Grows well in average, well drained soils, including sandy or rocky sites; avoid locations where water stands for long periods.
• Water: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots, then provide occasional deep watering during extended dry spells.
• Hardiness: Generally suitable for USDA Zones 5 to 8 when planted in full sun and good drainage.
• Size: Compact, spreading habit maturing about 2 to 3 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide.
• Growth Rate: Moderate grower that fills in steadily to create a solid mass of foliage over several seasons.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point Shrub: Use as a bright, low focal point near entries, walkways, or patios where its golden foliage anchors the bed and draws the eye.
• Foundation Plantings: Excellent for softening building edges, garage corners, and along front walks without growing up into windows.
• Mixed Borders: Pair with dark green conifers, burgundy foliage shrubs, or blue junipers to create strong color contrast in sunny borders.
• Slopes and Banks: Spreading habit and fibrous roots help cover and stabilize sunny slopes while reducing erosion and maintenance.
• Mass Plantings: Plant in groups for a broad sweep of gold that ties large beds together and looks clean year round.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: After establishment, water deeply but infrequently, allowing the top of the soil to dry slightly between waterings to encourage deep roots and drought tolerance.
• Pruning: Requires little pruning; lightly shear or selectively tip prune in late winter or early spring to control size or keep plants clear of paths and hardscape.
• Fertilizing: In average soils, a light application of a balanced, slow release fertilizer in early spring is usually sufficient.
• Mulching: Apply a 2 to 3 inch layer of mulch around the base, keeping it off the stems, to conserve moisture and reduce weed pressure while maintaining good drainage.
• Problem Resistance: Generally resistant to deer browsing and tolerant of heat, sun, and urban conditions when not overwatered.

Why Choose Casino Gold Chinese Juniper?

• Bright Golden Color: Lacy yellow gold foliage provides bold contrast and four season interest in sunny plantings.
• Compact, Spreading Habit: Low, mounded form fits comfortably in foundation beds, borders, and slopes without overwhelming the space.
• Tough and Adaptable: Handles sun, heat, and a range of well drained soils once established, with modest water needs.
• Low Maintenance: Dense growth, minimal pruning needs, and natural pest resistance make it easy to live with.
• Design Versatility: Works as a single focal point, in mixed borders, or in mass plantings wherever you need a durable splash of gold.

With its compact size, rich golden foliage, and rugged constitution, Casino Gold Chinese Juniper is a dependable evergreen that brightens sunny landscapes, anchors beds, and provides a long lasting focal point with very little ongoing care.