Common Juniper
Juniperus communis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–96" H × 24"–120" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AZ, CA, CO and 35 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Common juniper is a versatile evergreen shrub that tolerates poor soils and drought conditions exceptionally well. Its needle-like foliage and compact to spreading growth habit make it useful for foundation plantings, slopes, and naturalized areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Common Juniper is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
Provides important winter shelter and nesting sites for birds, while its berries feed various wildlife species including cedar waxwings and other songbirds.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Common Juniper fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.