Juniperus sabina Seeds | Savin Juniper
LATIN NAME: Juniperus sabina
COMMON NAME: Savin Juniper
Plant Profile
A distinctive member of its genus, Savin Juniper (Juniperus sabina) is a low, spreading evergreen shrub in the cypress family, native to mountains of eurasia. Savin juniper is a tough, low, spreading evergreen shrub of dry hills, and its fine, scale-like, bluish-green foliage and its small, dark, berry-like cones have made it a valued plant of rock garden and ground cover. Through the flowering season it keeps visiting bees well supplied. All of this makes Savin Juniper a satisfying plant to grow and to get to know.
Science & Biotechnology
As part of the cypress family, Juniperus sabina contributes to research on plant classification and adaptation, while nurseries and gardeners continue to trial it for cultivation. Savin juniper has a real and distinguished place in the research. Interest from collectors and breeders has never lapsed, and good seed continues to circulate.
Uses & Benefits
Savin Juniper works well in borders, containers and dedicated beds. Ecologically, savin juniper is a generous shrub of the garden. Its small, berry-like cones feed birds and wildlife, and its fine, scale-like, bluish-green foliage gives a tough, evergreen cover to dry slopes and rock garden. It is a shrub to handle with care, as its foliage is best left alone. Mature plants need little attention in a well-chosen position.
Juniper berries flavor gin and game and are a classical European diuretic for urinary teas, official in several herbals; the wood’s fragrant oils scent pencils, chests and incense.
Growing from Seed
Savin Juniper is one of those generous plants that come along well from seed. A simple routine works well: sow evenly over the surface and cover lightly in a loose, well-drained seed compost, maintain even moisture, and provide bright light. Once the seedlings have made true leaves, pot them on individually and plant out when they are sturdy and conditions are right.
Our Take
It comes from mountains of eurasia, which is the best clue to the conditions it enjoys in cultivation. Sun and good drainage cover most of its demands.
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