Exploring the Best Companion Plants for Grey Owl Juniper

The Beauty and Versatility of Grey Owl Juniper

Grey Owl Juniper is a popular evergreen shrub widely known for its blue-grey foliage and compact growth habit. It is a hardy plant that can adapt well to various soil types, making it an ideal choice for gardeners looking for low-maintenance ornamental plants. This plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and 4-5 feet wide, but it can be pruned to maintain its shape and size.

If you're considering planting Grey Owl Juniper in your garden, it's a good idea to pair it with other plants that can complement its beauty and provide practical benefits such as repelling pests and promoting healthy growth.

Companion Plants for Grey Owl Junipers

Here are some of the best companion plants for Grey Owl Juniper that you can consider:

1. Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulata)

Creeping Phlox is a low-growing perennial groundcover that produces masses of colorful flowers in shades of pink, lavender, blue, and white. It blooms in early spring, just when Grey Owl Juniper s to show off its new growth, creating a stunning contrast between the two plants. Creeping Phlox also acts as a natural weed suppressant and attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

2. Salvia (Salvia nemorosa)

Salvia is a hardy perennial plant that produces spikes of flowers in shades of blue, purple, pink, and white. It blooms in mid to late summer, just when Grey Owl Juniper has fully matured, creating a beautiful display of colors and textures. Salvia also attracts beneficial insects such as bees and hummingbirds, which can help pollinate nearby plants.

3. Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)

Russian Sage is a drought-tolerant perennial plant that produces tall spikes of lavender-blue flowers from mid-summer to early fall. It complements the silvery-blue foliage of Grey Owl Juniper and adds height and texture to your garden. Russian Sage also repels pests such as deer and rabbits, making it an excellent choice for gardens with wildlife issues.

4. Blue Fescue (Festuca glauca)

Blue Fescue is a small ornamental grass that forms clumps of blue-grey foliage. It is a perfect match for Grey Owl Juniper, with its similar color and texture. Blue Fescue also requires minimal maintenance and can tolerate dry conditions, making it an ideal choice for water-wise gardens.

5. Dwarf Alberta Spruce (Picea glauca 'Conica')

Dwarf Alberta Spruce is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that forms a cone-shaped structure. It provides a striking contrast to the low-growing Grey Owl Juniper and adds vertical interest to your garden. Dwarf Alberta Spruce also acts as a natural pest deterrent, repelling deer and other animals that may damage nearby plants.

Pairing Companion Plants for Maximum Impact

When choosing companion plants for Grey Owl Juniper, it's essential to consider their size, shape, and growth habit. You want to select plants that will complement and not overpower the beauty of your juniper. It's also a good idea to consider the timing of the bloom and growth of each plant, so they complement one another.

For example, pairing Creeping Phlox with Grey Owl Juniper can create a stunning display of contrasting colors in early spring. In contrast, planting Russian Sage and Blue Fescue with it can provide texture and height during the summer months when Grey Owl Juniper slows down its growth.

FAQs About Companion Plants for Grey Owl Juniper

1. What are some other low-growing groundcovers that pair well with Grey Owl Juniper?

Other low-growing groundcovers that pair well with Grey Owl Juniper include Sedum, Thyme, and Hosta. These plants add a pop of color and texture to your garden while also providing practical benefits such as weed suppression and soil erosion control.

2. Can I plant annual flowers around my Grey Owl Juniper?

Yes, you can plant annual flowers around your Grey Owl Juniper. However, it's essential to choose plants that will not compete with the juniper for nutrients and water. It's also a good idea to select annuals with similar growing requirements to ensure maximum success.

3. Will companion plants attract pests to my garden?

Companion plants are generally selected for their ability to repel pests rather than attract them. However, it's always a good idea to monitor your garden regularly for signs of pest infestation and take action accordingly.

4. How often should I water my Grey Owl Juniper and its companion plants?

Grey Owl Juniper is a drought-tolerant plant that requires little watering once established. Its companion plants may have different water requirements, so it's essential to research each plant's needs and water accordingly.

5. Can I plant shrubs around my Grey Owl Juniper?

Yes, you can plant shrubs around your Grey Owl Juniper. However, it's essential to choose shrubs that can thrive in the same growing conditions and have similar growth habits to ensure maximum success.



In pairing companion plants with Grey Owl Juniper can enhance its beauty and provide practical benefits such as pest control and soil conservation. When selecting companion plants, it's essential to consider their size, shape, and growth habit and choose plants that complement rather than overpower your juniper. With careful planning and regular maintenance, you can create a stunning garden that showcases the beauty and versatility of Grey Owl Juniper.