Scientific Name
Juniperus deppeana
Common Name
Alligator Juniper, Checkerbark Juniper
Photo: M.Ritter and J. Reimer courtesy of SelecTree
Tree Description
Juniperus deppeana, alligator juniper, is a medium-sized evergreen tree with blue-green foliage and striking bark that resembles alligator scales. It is sometimes multistemmed and grows at a fast rate. It is highly adaptable and tolerant of dry, sunny, hot locations.
Tree Size
Medium
Height at Maturity
30ft–60ft
Width at Maturity
20ft–30ft
Growth Rate
24 inches/year
Foliage Type
Evergreen
Conifer
Sun Exposure
Sun
Water Needs
Low Water
Potential Issues
Susceptible to Aphids, Beetle Borers and Spider Mites, Armillaria, Root Rot and Rust.
Average performance rating from pre-trial survey of experts
Good
Field Trial Monitoring Results
Good potential utility as an urban tree based on evaluation of 10 trees, healthy crown, 100% survival, moderate growth rate. No signs of pests or diseases found. Juvenile growth in field trial plantings is prickly, trees need pruning to develop a single trunk.
Propagation Results
High rates of germination with 48 hour warm soak and nicking with knife or nail clippers then 3 month cold stratification in light medium in refrigerator. Seedlings are fast growing and sometimes multi-stemmed.
Additional Images
Photo: M.Ritter and J.Reimer courtesy of SelecTree
Citation