Juniper x media Mint Julep

Juniperus × media ‘Mint Julep’ is a wonderfully easy evergreen that brings year-round structure with a fresh, bright twist of colour. With its arching, fountain-like habit and mint-green foliage, it softens edges, fills space beautifully, and gives borders that “finished” look without demanding much in return.

The foliage is dense and feathery, with a clean, invigorating green that stays attractive through every season. It’s particularly useful when you want a reliable evergreen to anchor a planting scheme—something that looks good in winter, behaves well in summer, and quietly supports everything around it. The naturally spreading shape makes it ideal for ground coverage, banks, and larger borders, while the arching tips add movement and a relaxed, landscaped feel.

Hardy and tolerant, ‘Mint Julep’ copes well with wind, urban conditions, and a range of soils, as long as drainage is good. It’s also a brilliant choice for low-maintenance gardens and contemporary planting, where texture and structure matter just as much as flowers.

Planting:
Allow plenty of space—this is a spreading juniper. For individual specimens, space plants 1.5–2.5m apart depending on the effect you want. Plant your 5L shrub in spring (March–May) or early autumn (September–October) for best establishment, though container-grown plants can be planted year-round if the ground isn’t frozen or waterlogged. Choose a position in full sun to partial shade—full sun gives the tightest growth and best colour. Dig a hole twice the width of the pot, loosen the soil well, and plant at the same depth as in the container. Firm in gently, water thoroughly, and mulch to conserve moisture (keep mulch away from the main stems).

Soil Preparation:
Prefers well-drained soil and dislikes sitting wet in winter. Tolerates poor, sandy, or stony soils once established. Improve heavy clay with grit and organic matter, or plant slightly proud on a small mound to keep the crown out of winter wet. Neutral to slightly acidic soil is ideal, but it’s generally adaptable.

Seasonal Care:
Water regularly in the first growing season while roots establish. Once established, it is drought-tolerant and low maintenance. No pruning is essential, but you can lightly trim in late spring or early summer to keep it tidier or slightly more compact. Avoid cutting back into old brown wood, as conifers may not regrow from bare stems.

Pests & Problems:
Generally trouble-free. The main issue is poor drainage, which can lead to root problems. Good airflow and avoiding waterlogged soil keep plants healthy.

Design Notes:
Excellent for banks, gravel gardens, and large borders. Looks great with ornamental grasses, lavender, salvias, heathers, and other drought-tolerant planting. Also brilliant as a year-round “grounding” evergreen beneath taller shrubs and small trees.