Types of Juniper Shrubs

Juniper trees and shrubs are in the genus Juniperus in the cypress (Cupressaceae) family. These evergreen conifers feature leaves that can either be like needles or scales, and most of the species change from needle form to scale form as they mature. Most junipers offer at least some level of drought resistance.

Other Common Names: Mexican drooping juniper, weeping juniper, weeping cedar, drooping cedar, tascate; Native to: Texas, Mexico, and Guatemala; USDA Zones: 8b to 11; Height: Most trees peak at around 35 to 40' tall.

The term juniper berries is a loose one as the juniper is a relation of pine tree, and the fruit of the juniper is more like a pine cone than the berries we associate with straw and rasp. The flavor is quite similar to pine cones, and just about as palatable.

Here’s a list of suitable junipers for zone 3. Spreading Zone 3 Junipers. Arcadia – this juniper reaches only 12 to 18 inches and its nice green color and creeping growth makes it a great ground cover in the garden. Broadmoor – another ground covering juniper, this one is a bit taller, reaching about 2-3 feet in height with a 4- to 6- foot spread.