Mother Lode Creeping Juniper

Mother Lode Creeping Juniper (Juniperus horizontalis �Mother Lode�)

Mother Lode Creeping Juniper (Juniperus horizontalis �Mother Lode�) is a brilliant, low-spreading evergreen groundcover prized for its intense golden-yellow foliage and tight, trailing form. Exceptionally showy in all seasons, this cultivar offers a luminous accent for rock gardens, slopes, and foundation plantings where vivid color and low maintenance are key.

Distinctive Features

'Mother Lode' typically reaches just 4 to 6 inches in height while spreading up to 6 feet wide. Its fine-textured, scale-like foliage emerges bright gold in spring and maintains strong yellow tones through summer. Cooler weather brings eye-catching orange and bronze highlights, giving this juniper outstanding multi-season interest. The dense, low habit helps suppress weeds and hugs the ground for a clean, sculpted look.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Soil: Well-drained soil; tolerates sandy, rocky, and lean conditions
• Water: Low; drought tolerant once established
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3�9

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Intense gold color draws the eye in borders, beds, or mass plantings
• Groundcover: Dense mat-forming growth smothers weeds and stabilizes soil
• Rock Gardens: Bright tones contrast beautifully with stone and gravel
• Slopes and Banks: Excellent for erosion control on hillsides and retaining walls
• Foundation Planting: Adds vibrant evergreen color without blocking views

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water regularly during establishment; minimal water needed after
• Pruning: Very little needed; shape only to manage spread
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring
• Mulching: Helps retain moisture and suppress weed growth
• Pest Resistance: Highly deer resistant and pest-free under normal conditions

Why Choose Mother Lode Creeping Juniper?

• Striking Golden Color: One of the most vivid yellow groundcovers available
• Low and Spreading: Grows flat against the ground, ideal for slopes and rockeries
• Cold Hardy: Performs reliably in northern climates
• Low Maintenance: Drought tolerant, weed suppressing, and easy to grow
• Focal Point: Bright color and low profile offer bold contrast in layered plantings

Juniperus horizontalis �Mother Lode� combines standout color with durability and easy care, making it a top choice for gardeners seeking a high-impact, ground-hugging evergreen that thrives in challenging sites.