Skyrocket Juniper (Juniperus scopulorum Skyrocket)
Regular price
$395.00
Size
The Perfect Privacy Tree for Narrow Spaces
Skyrocket Juniper gives you tall, evergreen privacy where broader trees and hedges simply will not fit. This slim, fast-growing skyrocket juniper tree creates vertical privacy without taking up much ground space, making it especially useful along property lines, narrow side yards, urban gardens, and other tight spaces.
Known botanically as Juniperus scopulorum ‘Skyrocket’ and often sold as Juniperus scopulorum Skyrocket, this narrow, columnar variety of the Rocky Mountain Juniper is valued for its elegant slender form, silvery blue-green foliage, and year round color. Mature Skyrocket Junipers typically grow to be between 15 to 20 feet tall and maintain a width of about 2 to 3 feet, making them suitable for narrow spaces.
Why You’ll Love It
-
Creates instant privacy – Skyrocket Juniper is an excellent choice for creating a vertical privacy screen due to its narrow, columnar shape, which allows it to fit in tight spaces while providing height and coverage.
-
Fits anywhere – This juniper variety can reach heights of 15 to 20 feet while only being 2 to 3 feet wide, making it ideal for narrow side yards and property lines where broader trees would be impractical.
-
Year-round beauty – Silvery blue to blue green foliage holds its color year-round, adding a clean vertical accent to the landscape through spring, summer, fall, and winter.
-
Virtually maintenance-free – Once established, Skyrocket Juniper requires very little care, needing only occasional watering during extended dry periods.
-
Built to last – This drought tolerant evergreen is adaptable, deer resistant, and capable of handling wind, heat, cold, dry soil, and many challenging climates.
Skyrocket Juniper has a fast growth rate of over 12 inches per year and can reach a height of approximately 12 feet and a width of 3 feet in about 10 years. That means you get useful screening height faster than many traditional evergreens, without the constant pruning that wide hedges often demand.
What Makes It Different
Most privacy trees are too wide for tight spaces. Arborvitae, broadleaf evergreens, and traditional hedges often spread into walkways, patios, fences, or neighboring access areas. Skyrocket Juniper offers:
-
Pencil-thin profile – Skyrocket Juniper is known for its columnar shape, which allows it to fit in tight spaces while still providing vertical height and privacy.
-
Silver-blue foliage – Its silvery blue, blue green foliage stands apart from common green foliage and pairs well with stone, wood, stucco, brick, perennials, and modern garden designs.
-
Self-shaping growth – Its naturally narrow form keeps a dense upright look with minimal trimming, making it one of the narrowest juniper options for a formal row, foundation plantings, or a living fence.
-
Hardier alternative to Italian Cypress – Compared with Italian Cypress, this Rocky Mountain juniper is generally more adaptable to cold, dry soil, rocky ground, and well drained soils.
-
Distinct from similar cultivars – Compared with other dense evergreen screening plants like Brush Cherry hedges or cultivars like Wichita Blue, Skyrocket offers a tighter vertical habit and a refined architectural silhouette.
This juniper’s branches grow upright, revealing attractive reddish brown bark on older stems over time. Like many conifers, the foliage contains aromatic volatile oils that release a classic juniper scent when touched.
How To Grow Skyrocket Juniper Successfully
-
Plant in full sun
For comparison, versatile evergreens like the Fern Pine hedge (Podocarpus gracilior) also thrive in bright conditions but offer a broader, more traditional hedge form. Junipers require six or more hours of direct sunlight daily. Skyrocket Juniper thrives in full sun and well-draining soils, preferring dry conditions and a neutral pH. For a privacy screen, plant in a row with enough spacing for airflow, usually about 3 to 4 feet apart on center. -
Set the root ball correctly
Just as with Fern Pine trees (Podocarpus gracilior), correct planting depth and well-drained soil are essential to long-term health. During planting, place the root ball level with the surrounding ground and use well draining soil around the roots. Junipers thrive in well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Junipers are highly adaptable and can thrive in various soil types but cannot tolerate standing water. -
Water regularly the first year
Establish newly planted junipers by watering regularly for the first growing season, then reduce frequency as they become drought-tolerant. Water deeply to encourage strong root growth, but avoid keeping the soil constantly moist. Poor drainage is the leading cause of root rot in junipers. -
Enjoy rapid upright growth
This juniper variety grows quickly, achieving heights of 12 to 20 feet while maintaining a width of only 2 to 3 feet, making it ideal for narrow spaces and urban landscapes. Once established, its drought tolerance, narrow growth, and low maintenance needs make it a reliable privacy tree with very little care.
Plant Details
-
Botanical Name: Juniperus scopulorum ‘Skyrocket’; also commonly associated with Juniperus virginiana‘Skyrocket’ in some nursery listings
-
Plant Type: Evergreen conifer / Rocky Mountain Juniper cultivar
-
Mature Size: Mature Skyrocket Junipers typically grow to be between 15 to 20 feet tall and maintain a width of about 2 to 3 feet
-
10-Year Size: Skyrocket Juniper has a fast growth rate of over 12 inches per year and can reach a height of approximately 12 feet and a width of 3 feet in about 10 years
-
Growth Rate: Fast for a narrow juniper; commonly over 12 inches per year in good conditions
-
Foliage Color: Silvery blue to blue green; retains year round color
-
Sun Exposure: Full sun; six or more hours of direct sunlight daily
-
Soil Needs: Well drained soils; sandy, loamy, rocky, or adaptable garden soil
-
Soil pH: Junipers thrive in well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5
-
Water Needs: Regular water through the first growing season; low water needs once established
-
Drought Tolerance: Skyrocket Juniper is drought tolerant and adaptable to various soil types, thriving in full sun and well-drained conditions, which makes it a low-maintenance option for gardeners
-
Hardiness Zones: Commonly grown in hardiness zones 3 through 9; many popular privacy trees and shrubs for milder regions prefer narrower zone ranges
-
Maintenance: Junipers are low-input, low-maintenance plants that require minimal supplemental fertilizer after establishment, similar to other evergreen hedging options like English Laurel
-
Fertilizer: Fertilization is generally unnecessary for Skyrocket Juniper unless soil deficiencies are present; if fertilizing, use a slow-release fertilizer in early spring and again during the growing season
-
Mulch: Mulching around the base of junipers can help retain moisture and suppress weeds, but it should be kept a few inches away from the trunk to prevent bark diseases; this is true for many trees available from our online plant nursery
-
Pruning: Junipers should be lightly pruned in early spring to maintain their natural shape and promote airflow
-
Pruning Caution: Avoid cutting back into the old, leafless woody interior of junipers, as they will not regenerate new foliage from bare wood
-
Disease Prevention: Good airflow around junipers is crucial to preventing fungal diseases in dense foliage
-
Watch For: Skyrocket Juniper is resistant to most pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to blights in rainy conditions and root rot in soggy soils
-
Avoid: Standing water, poor drainage, heavy shade, and high humidity sites with limited airflow
-
Wildlife Notes: Deer resistant; birds may visit mature plants for shelter and small juniper cones, much like they do in larger evergreens such as Monterey Cypress
Who It’s For
Ideal for:
-
Homeowners who need a privacy screen in narrow side yards, tight spaces, or along property lines
-
Property owners who want low-maintenance evergreen trees with year round color
-
Landscapers creating formal garden structure, vertical accent plantings, or architectural designs
-
California gardeners looking for drought tolerant evergreens suited to dry soil and water-wise landscapes
-
Anyone replacing bulky hedges with a narrow, tall, adaptable tree
Skyrocket Juniper’s upright growth habit allows it to serve as a living fence or windbreak, providing privacy without the bulk of traditional hedges. If you want a clean, tall screen without sacrificing ground space, this tree fits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast does it grow?
Skyrocket Juniper has a fast growth rate of over 12 inches per year. With good sun, well draining soil, and regular watering during establishment, it can reach approximately 12 feet tall and 3 feet wide in about 10 years.
How much space does it need?
Mature Skyrocket Junipers typically grow to be between 15 to 20 feet tall and maintain a width of about 2 to 3 feet. For a privacy screen, plant them in a row with enough room for airflow and full development, commonly about 3 to 4 feet apart.
Is it drought tolerant?
Yes. Establish newly planted junipers by watering regularly for the first growing season, then reduce frequency as they become drought-tolerant. Allow the top two inches of soil to dry completely between waterings for established junipers.
Does it need pruning?
Very little. Junipers should be lightly pruned in early spring to maintain their natural shape and promote airflow. You can also inspect in late winter for damaged branches, but avoid cutting into old bare wood because junipers will not regenerate new foliage from the leafless woody interior.
What soil does it prefer?
Skyrocket Juniper thrives in full sun and well-draining soils, preferring dry conditions and a neutral pH. Junipers thrive in well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, and they can adapt to rocky or mixed soil as long as drainage is strong.
What problems should I avoid?
Poor drainage is the leading cause of root rot in junipers. Avoid standing water, soggy soil, heavy shade, and crowded planting sites with poor airflow. Skyrocket Juniper is resistant to most pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to blights in rainy conditions and root rot in soggy soils.
Ready to Transform Your Space?
Choose Skyrocket Juniper for vertical privacy, silvery blue color, drought tolerance, and a narrow form that works beautifully in modern landscapes, foundation plantings, and urban gardens.
Yardwork can help you choose the right size, confirm sun and soil conditions, plan spacing, and arrange delivery for your planting project through our convenient plant nursery and landscaping services.
The Perfect Privacy Tree for Narrow Spaces
Skyrocket Juniper gives you tall, evergreen privacy where broader trees and hedges simply will not fit. This slim, fast-growing skyrocket juniper tree creates vertical privacy without taking up much ground space, making it especially useful along property lines, narrow side yards, urban gardens, and other tight spaces.
Known botanically as Juniperus scopulorum ‘Skyrocket’ and often sold as Juniperus scopulorum Skyrocket, this narrow, columnar variety of the Rocky Mountain Juniper is valued for its elegant slender form, silvery blue-green foliage, and year round color. Mature Skyrocket Junipers typically grow to be between 15 to 20 feet tall and maintain a width of about 2 to 3 feet, making them suitable for narrow spaces.
Why You’ll Love It
-
Creates instant privacy – Skyrocket Juniper is an excellent choice for creating a vertical privacy screen due to its narrow, columnar shape, which allows it to fit in tight spaces while providing height and coverage.
-
Fits anywhere – This juniper variety can reach heights of 15 to 20 feet while only being 2 to 3 feet wide, making it ideal for narrow side yards and property lines where broader trees would be impractical.
-
Year-round beauty – Silvery blue to blue green foliage holds its color year-round, adding a clean vertical accent to the landscape through spring, summer, fall, and winter.
-
Virtually maintenance-free – Once established, Skyrocket Juniper requires very little care, needing only occasional watering during extended dry periods.
-
Built to last – This drought tolerant evergreen is adaptable, deer resistant, and capable of handling wind, heat, cold, dry soil, and many challenging climates.
Skyrocket Juniper has a fast growth rate of over 12 inches per year and can reach a height of approximately 12 feet and a width of 3 feet in about 10 years. That means you get useful screening height faster than many traditional evergreens, without the constant pruning that wide hedges often demand.
What Makes It Different
Most privacy trees are too wide for tight spaces. Arborvitae, broadleaf evergreens, and traditional hedges often spread into walkways, patios, fences, or neighboring access areas. Skyrocket Juniper offers:
-
Pencil-thin profile – Skyrocket Juniper is known for its columnar shape, which allows it to fit in tight spaces while still providing vertical height and privacy.
-
Silver-blue foliage – Its silvery blue, blue green foliage stands apart from common green foliage and pairs well with stone, wood, stucco, brick, perennials, and modern garden designs.
-
Self-shaping growth – Its naturally narrow form keeps a dense upright look with minimal trimming, making it one of the narrowest juniper options for a formal row, foundation plantings, or a living fence.
-
Hardier alternative to Italian Cypress – Compared with Italian Cypress, this Rocky Mountain juniper is generally more adaptable to cold, dry soil, rocky ground, and well drained soils.
-
Distinct from similar cultivars – Compared with other dense evergreen screening plants like Brush Cherry hedges or cultivars like Wichita Blue, Skyrocket offers a tighter vertical habit and a refined architectural silhouette.
This juniper’s branches grow upright, revealing attractive reddish brown bark on older stems over time. Like many conifers, the foliage contains aromatic volatile oils that release a classic juniper scent when touched.
How To Grow Skyrocket Juniper Successfully
-
Plant in full sun
For comparison, versatile evergreens like the Fern Pine hedge (Podocarpus gracilior) also thrive in bright conditions but offer a broader, more traditional hedge form. Junipers require six or more hours of direct sunlight daily. Skyrocket Juniper thrives in full sun and well-draining soils, preferring dry conditions and a neutral pH. For a privacy screen, plant in a row with enough spacing for airflow, usually about 3 to 4 feet apart on center. -
Set the root ball correctly
Just as with Fern Pine trees (Podocarpus gracilior), correct planting depth and well-drained soil are essential to long-term health. During planting, place the root ball level with the surrounding ground and use well draining soil around the roots. Junipers thrive in well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Junipers are highly adaptable and can thrive in various soil types but cannot tolerate standing water. -
Water regularly the first year
Establish newly planted junipers by watering regularly for the first growing season, then reduce frequency as they become drought-tolerant. Water deeply to encourage strong root growth, but avoid keeping the soil constantly moist. Poor drainage is the leading cause of root rot in junipers. -
Enjoy rapid upright growth
This juniper variety grows quickly, achieving heights of 12 to 20 feet while maintaining a width of only 2 to 3 feet, making it ideal for narrow spaces and urban landscapes. Once established, its drought tolerance, narrow growth, and low maintenance needs make it a reliable privacy tree with very little care.
Plant Details
-
Botanical Name: Juniperus scopulorum ‘Skyrocket’; also commonly associated with Juniperus virginiana‘Skyrocket’ in some nursery listings
-
Plant Type: Evergreen conifer / Rocky Mountain Juniper cultivar
-
Mature Size: Mature Skyrocket Junipers typically grow to be between 15 to 20 feet tall and maintain a width of about 2 to 3 feet
-
10-Year Size: Skyrocket Juniper has a fast growth rate of over 12 inches per year and can reach a height of approximately 12 feet and a width of 3 feet in about 10 years
-
Growth Rate: Fast for a narrow juniper; commonly over 12 inches per year in good conditions
-
Foliage Color: Silvery blue to blue green; retains year round color
-
Sun Exposure: Full sun; six or more hours of direct sunlight daily
-
Soil Needs: Well drained soils; sandy, loamy, rocky, or adaptable garden soil
-
Soil pH: Junipers thrive in well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5
-
Water Needs: Regular water through the first growing season; low water needs once established
-
Drought Tolerance: Skyrocket Juniper is drought tolerant and adaptable to various soil types, thriving in full sun and well-drained conditions, which makes it a low-maintenance option for gardeners
-
Hardiness Zones: Commonly grown in hardiness zones 3 through 9; many popular privacy trees and shrubs for milder regions prefer narrower zone ranges
-
Maintenance: Junipers are low-input, low-maintenance plants that require minimal supplemental fertilizer after establishment, similar to other evergreen hedging options like English Laurel
-
Fertilizer: Fertilization is generally unnecessary for Skyrocket Juniper unless soil deficiencies are present; if fertilizing, use a slow-release fertilizer in early spring and again during the growing season
-
Mulch: Mulching around the base of junipers can help retain moisture and suppress weeds, but it should be kept a few inches away from the trunk to prevent bark diseases; this is true for many trees available from our online plant nursery
-
Pruning: Junipers should be lightly pruned in early spring to maintain their natural shape and promote airflow
-
Pruning Caution: Avoid cutting back into the old, leafless woody interior of junipers, as they will not regenerate new foliage from bare wood
-
Disease Prevention: Good airflow around junipers is crucial to preventing fungal diseases in dense foliage
-
Watch For: Skyrocket Juniper is resistant to most pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to blights in rainy conditions and root rot in soggy soils
-
Avoid: Standing water, poor drainage, heavy shade, and high humidity sites with limited airflow
-
Wildlife Notes: Deer resistant; birds may visit mature plants for shelter and small juniper cones, much like they do in larger evergreens such as Monterey Cypress
Who It’s For
Ideal for:
-
Homeowners who need a privacy screen in narrow side yards, tight spaces, or along property lines
-
Property owners who want low-maintenance evergreen trees with year round color
-
Landscapers creating formal garden structure, vertical accent plantings, or architectural designs
-
California gardeners looking for drought tolerant evergreens suited to dry soil and water-wise landscapes
-
Anyone replacing bulky hedges with a narrow, tall, adaptable tree
Skyrocket Juniper’s upright growth habit allows it to serve as a living fence or windbreak, providing privacy without the bulk of traditional hedges. If you want a clean, tall screen without sacrificing ground space, this tree fits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast does it grow?
Skyrocket Juniper has a fast growth rate of over 12 inches per year. With good sun, well draining soil, and regular watering during establishment, it can reach approximately 12 feet tall and 3 feet wide in about 10 years.
How much space does it need?
Mature Skyrocket Junipers typically grow to be between 15 to 20 feet tall and maintain a width of about 2 to 3 feet. For a privacy screen, plant them in a row with enough room for airflow and full development, commonly about 3 to 4 feet apart.
Is it drought tolerant?
Yes. Establish newly planted junipers by watering regularly for the first growing season, then reduce frequency as they become drought-tolerant. Allow the top two inches of soil to dry completely between waterings for established junipers.
Does it need pruning?
Very little. Junipers should be lightly pruned in early spring to maintain their natural shape and promote airflow. You can also inspect in late winter for damaged branches, but avoid cutting into old bare wood because junipers will not regenerate new foliage from the leafless woody interior.
What soil does it prefer?
Skyrocket Juniper thrives in full sun and well-draining soils, preferring dry conditions and a neutral pH. Junipers thrive in well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, and they can adapt to rocky or mixed soil as long as drainage is strong.
What problems should I avoid?
Poor drainage is the leading cause of root rot in junipers. Avoid standing water, soggy soil, heavy shade, and crowded planting sites with poor airflow. Skyrocket Juniper is resistant to most pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to blights in rainy conditions and root rot in soggy soils.
Ready to Transform Your Space?
Choose Skyrocket Juniper for vertical privacy, silvery blue color, drought tolerance, and a narrow form that works beautifully in modern landscapes, foundation plantings, and urban gardens.
Yardwork can help you choose the right size, confirm sun and soil conditions, plan spacing, and arrange delivery for your planting project through our convenient plant nursery and landscaping services.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
You may also like...
Skyrocket Juniper (Juniperus scopulorum Skyrocket)
Regular price
$395.00
Size
The Perfect Privacy Tree for Narrow Spaces
Skyrocket Juniper gives you tall, evergreen privacy where broader trees and hedges simply will not fit. This slim, fast-growing skyrocket juniper tree creates vertical privacy without taking up much ground space, making it especially useful along property lines, narrow side yards, urban gardens, and other tight spaces.
Known botanically as Juniperus scopulorum ‘Skyrocket’ and often sold as Juniperus scopulorum Skyrocket, this narrow, columnar variety of the Rocky Mountain Juniper is valued for its elegant slender form, silvery blue-green foliage, and year round color. Mature Skyrocket Junipers typically grow to be between 15 to 20 feet tall and maintain a width of about 2 to 3 feet, making them suitable for narrow spaces.
Why You’ll Love It
-
Creates instant privacy – Skyrocket Juniper is an excellent choice for creating a vertical privacy screen due to its narrow, columnar shape, which allows it to fit in tight spaces while providing height and coverage.
-
Fits anywhere – This juniper variety can reach heights of 15 to 20 feet while only being 2 to 3 feet wide, making it ideal for narrow side yards and property lines where broader trees would be impractical.
-
Year-round beauty – Silvery blue to blue green foliage holds its color year-round, adding a clean vertical accent to the landscape through spring, summer, fall, and winter.
-
Virtually maintenance-free – Once established, Skyrocket Juniper requires very little care, needing only occasional watering during extended dry periods.
-
Built to last – This drought tolerant evergreen is adaptable, deer resistant, and capable of handling wind, heat, cold, dry soil, and many challenging climates.
Skyrocket Juniper has a fast growth rate of over 12 inches per year and can reach a height of approximately 12 feet and a width of 3 feet in about 10 years. That means you get useful screening height faster than many traditional evergreens, without the constant pruning that wide hedges often demand.
What Makes It Different
Most privacy trees are too wide for tight spaces. Arborvitae, broadleaf evergreens, and traditional hedges often spread into walkways, patios, fences, or neighboring access areas. Skyrocket Juniper offers:
-
Pencil-thin profile – Skyrocket Juniper is known for its columnar shape, which allows it to fit in tight spaces while still providing vertical height and privacy.
-
Silver-blue foliage – Its silvery blue, blue green foliage stands apart from common green foliage and pairs well with stone, wood, stucco, brick, perennials, and modern garden designs.
-
Self-shaping growth – Its naturally narrow form keeps a dense upright look with minimal trimming, making it one of the narrowest juniper options for a formal row, foundation plantings, or a living fence.
-
Hardier alternative to Italian Cypress – Compared with Italian Cypress, this Rocky Mountain juniper is generally more adaptable to cold, dry soil, rocky ground, and well drained soils.
-
Distinct from similar cultivars – Compared with other dense evergreen screening plants like Brush Cherry hedges or cultivars like Wichita Blue, Skyrocket offers a tighter vertical habit and a refined architectural silhouette.
This juniper’s branches grow upright, revealing attractive reddish brown bark on older stems over time. Like many conifers, the foliage contains aromatic volatile oils that release a classic juniper scent when touched.
How To Grow Skyrocket Juniper Successfully
-
Plant in full sun
For comparison, versatile evergreens like the Fern Pine hedge (Podocarpus gracilior) also thrive in bright conditions but offer a broader, more traditional hedge form. Junipers require six or more hours of direct sunlight daily. Skyrocket Juniper thrives in full sun and well-draining soils, preferring dry conditions and a neutral pH. For a privacy screen, plant in a row with enough spacing for airflow, usually about 3 to 4 feet apart on center. -
Set the root ball correctly
Just as with Fern Pine trees (Podocarpus gracilior), correct planting depth and well-drained soil are essential to long-term health. During planting, place the root ball level with the surrounding ground and use well draining soil around the roots. Junipers thrive in well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Junipers are highly adaptable and can thrive in various soil types but cannot tolerate standing water. -
Water regularly the first year
Establish newly planted junipers by watering regularly for the first growing season, then reduce frequency as they become drought-tolerant. Water deeply to encourage strong root growth, but avoid keeping the soil constantly moist. Poor drainage is the leading cause of root rot in junipers. -
Enjoy rapid upright growth
This juniper variety grows quickly, achieving heights of 12 to 20 feet while maintaining a width of only 2 to 3 feet, making it ideal for narrow spaces and urban landscapes. Once established, its drought tolerance, narrow growth, and low maintenance needs make it a reliable privacy tree with very little care.
Plant Details
-
Botanical Name: Juniperus scopulorum ‘Skyrocket’; also commonly associated with Juniperus virginiana‘Skyrocket’ in some nursery listings
-
Plant Type: Evergreen conifer / Rocky Mountain Juniper cultivar
-
Mature Size: Mature Skyrocket Junipers typically grow to be between 15 to 20 feet tall and maintain a width of about 2 to 3 feet
-
10-Year Size: Skyrocket Juniper has a fast growth rate of over 12 inches per year and can reach a height of approximately 12 feet and a width of 3 feet in about 10 years
-
Growth Rate: Fast for a narrow juniper; commonly over 12 inches per year in good conditions
-
Foliage Color: Silvery blue to blue green; retains year round color
-
Sun Exposure: Full sun; six or more hours of direct sunlight daily
-
Soil Needs: Well drained soils; sandy, loamy, rocky, or adaptable garden soil
-
Soil pH: Junipers thrive in well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5
-
Water Needs: Regular water through the first growing season; low water needs once established
-
Drought Tolerance: Skyrocket Juniper is drought tolerant and adaptable to various soil types, thriving in full sun and well-drained conditions, which makes it a low-maintenance option for gardeners
-
Hardiness Zones: Commonly grown in hardiness zones 3 through 9; many popular privacy trees and shrubs for milder regions prefer narrower zone ranges
-
Maintenance: Junipers are low-input, low-maintenance plants that require minimal supplemental fertilizer after establishment, similar to other evergreen hedging options like English Laurel
-
Fertilizer: Fertilization is generally unnecessary for Skyrocket Juniper unless soil deficiencies are present; if fertilizing, use a slow-release fertilizer in early spring and again during the growing season
-
Mulch: Mulching around the base of junipers can help retain moisture and suppress weeds, but it should be kept a few inches away from the trunk to prevent bark diseases; this is true for many trees available from our online plant nursery
-
Pruning: Junipers should be lightly pruned in early spring to maintain their natural shape and promote airflow
-
Pruning Caution: Avoid cutting back into the old, leafless woody interior of junipers, as they will not regenerate new foliage from bare wood
-
Disease Prevention: Good airflow around junipers is crucial to preventing fungal diseases in dense foliage
-
Watch For: Skyrocket Juniper is resistant to most pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to blights in rainy conditions and root rot in soggy soils
-
Avoid: Standing water, poor drainage, heavy shade, and high humidity sites with limited airflow
-
Wildlife Notes: Deer resistant; birds may visit mature plants for shelter and small juniper cones, much like they do in larger evergreens such as Monterey Cypress
Who It’s For
Ideal for:
-
Homeowners who need a privacy screen in narrow side yards, tight spaces, or along property lines
-
Property owners who want low-maintenance evergreen trees with year round color
-
Landscapers creating formal garden structure, vertical accent plantings, or architectural designs
-
California gardeners looking for drought tolerant evergreens suited to dry soil and water-wise landscapes
-
Anyone replacing bulky hedges with a narrow, tall, adaptable tree
Skyrocket Juniper’s upright growth habit allows it to serve as a living fence or windbreak, providing privacy without the bulk of traditional hedges. If you want a clean, tall screen without sacrificing ground space, this tree fits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast does it grow?
Skyrocket Juniper has a fast growth rate of over 12 inches per year. With good sun, well draining soil, and regular watering during establishment, it can reach approximately 12 feet tall and 3 feet wide in about 10 years.
How much space does it need?
Mature Skyrocket Junipers typically grow to be between 15 to 20 feet tall and maintain a width of about 2 to 3 feet. For a privacy screen, plant them in a row with enough room for airflow and full development, commonly about 3 to 4 feet apart.
Is it drought tolerant?
Yes. Establish newly planted junipers by watering regularly for the first growing season, then reduce frequency as they become drought-tolerant. Allow the top two inches of soil to dry completely between waterings for established junipers.
Does it need pruning?
Very little. Junipers should be lightly pruned in early spring to maintain their natural shape and promote airflow. You can also inspect in late winter for damaged branches, but avoid cutting into old bare wood because junipers will not regenerate new foliage from the leafless woody interior.
What soil does it prefer?
Skyrocket Juniper thrives in full sun and well-draining soils, preferring dry conditions and a neutral pH. Junipers thrive in well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, and they can adapt to rocky or mixed soil as long as drainage is strong.
What problems should I avoid?
Poor drainage is the leading cause of root rot in junipers. Avoid standing water, soggy soil, heavy shade, and crowded planting sites with poor airflow. Skyrocket Juniper is resistant to most pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to blights in rainy conditions and root rot in soggy soils.
Ready to Transform Your Space?
Choose Skyrocket Juniper for vertical privacy, silvery blue color, drought tolerance, and a narrow form that works beautifully in modern landscapes, foundation plantings, and urban gardens.
Yardwork can help you choose the right size, confirm sun and soil conditions, plan spacing, and arrange delivery for your planting project through our convenient plant nursery and landscaping services.
The Perfect Privacy Tree for Narrow Spaces
Skyrocket Juniper gives you tall, evergreen privacy where broader trees and hedges simply will not fit. This slim, fast-growing skyrocket juniper tree creates vertical privacy without taking up much ground space, making it especially useful along property lines, narrow side yards, urban gardens, and other tight spaces.
Known botanically as Juniperus scopulorum ‘Skyrocket’ and often sold as Juniperus scopulorum Skyrocket, this narrow, columnar variety of the Rocky Mountain Juniper is valued for its elegant slender form, silvery blue-green foliage, and year round color. Mature Skyrocket Junipers typically grow to be between 15 to 20 feet tall and maintain a width of about 2 to 3 feet, making them suitable for narrow spaces.
Why You’ll Love It
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Creates instant privacy – Skyrocket Juniper is an excellent choice for creating a vertical privacy screen due to its narrow, columnar shape, which allows it to fit in tight spaces while providing height and coverage.
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Fits anywhere – This juniper variety can reach heights of 15 to 20 feet while only being 2 to 3 feet wide, making it ideal for narrow side yards and property lines where broader trees would be impractical.
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Year-round beauty – Silvery blue to blue green foliage holds its color year-round, adding a clean vertical accent to the landscape through spring, summer, fall, and winter.
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Virtually maintenance-free – Once established, Skyrocket Juniper requires very little care, needing only occasional watering during extended dry periods.
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Built to last – This drought tolerant evergreen is adaptable, deer resistant, and capable of handling wind, heat, cold, dry soil, and many challenging climates.
Skyrocket Juniper has a fast growth rate of over 12 inches per year and can reach a height of approximately 12 feet and a width of 3 feet in about 10 years. That means you get useful screening height faster than many traditional evergreens, without the constant pruning that wide hedges often demand.
What Makes It Different
Most privacy trees are too wide for tight spaces. Arborvitae, broadleaf evergreens, and traditional hedges often spread into walkways, patios, fences, or neighboring access areas. Skyrocket Juniper offers:
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Pencil-thin profile – Skyrocket Juniper is known for its columnar shape, which allows it to fit in tight spaces while still providing vertical height and privacy.
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Silver-blue foliage – Its silvery blue, blue green foliage stands apart from common green foliage and pairs well with stone, wood, stucco, brick, perennials, and modern garden designs.
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Self-shaping growth – Its naturally narrow form keeps a dense upright look with minimal trimming, making it one of the narrowest juniper options for a formal row, foundation plantings, or a living fence.
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Hardier alternative to Italian Cypress – Compared with Italian Cypress, this Rocky Mountain juniper is generally more adaptable to cold, dry soil, rocky ground, and well drained soils.
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Distinct from similar cultivars – Compared with other dense evergreen screening plants like Brush Cherry hedges or cultivars like Wichita Blue, Skyrocket offers a tighter vertical habit and a refined architectural silhouette.
This juniper’s branches grow upright, revealing attractive reddish brown bark on older stems over time. Like many conifers, the foliage contains aromatic volatile oils that release a classic juniper scent when touched.
How To Grow Skyrocket Juniper Successfully
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Plant in full sun
For comparison, versatile evergreens like the Fern Pine hedge (Podocarpus gracilior) also thrive in bright conditions but offer a broader, more traditional hedge form. Junipers require six or more hours of direct sunlight daily. Skyrocket Juniper thrives in full sun and well-draining soils, preferring dry conditions and a neutral pH. For a privacy screen, plant in a row with enough spacing for airflow, usually about 3 to 4 feet apart on center. -
Set the root ball correctly
Just as with Fern Pine trees (Podocarpus gracilior), correct planting depth and well-drained soil are essential to long-term health. During planting, place the root ball level with the surrounding ground and use well draining soil around the roots. Junipers thrive in well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Junipers are highly adaptable and can thrive in various soil types but cannot tolerate standing water. -
Water regularly the first year
Establish newly planted junipers by watering regularly for the first growing season, then reduce frequency as they become drought-tolerant. Water deeply to encourage strong root growth, but avoid keeping the soil constantly moist. Poor drainage is the leading cause of root rot in junipers. -
Enjoy rapid upright growth
This juniper variety grows quickly, achieving heights of 12 to 20 feet while maintaining a width of only 2 to 3 feet, making it ideal for narrow spaces and urban landscapes. Once established, its drought tolerance, narrow growth, and low maintenance needs make it a reliable privacy tree with very little care.
Plant Details
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Botanical Name: Juniperus scopulorum ‘Skyrocket’; also commonly associated with Juniperus virginiana‘Skyrocket’ in some nursery listings
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Plant Type: Evergreen conifer / Rocky Mountain Juniper cultivar
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Mature Size: Mature Skyrocket Junipers typically grow to be between 15 to 20 feet tall and maintain a width of about 2 to 3 feet
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10-Year Size: Skyrocket Juniper has a fast growth rate of over 12 inches per year and can reach a height of approximately 12 feet and a width of 3 feet in about 10 years
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Growth Rate: Fast for a narrow juniper; commonly over 12 inches per year in good conditions
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Foliage Color: Silvery blue to blue green; retains year round color
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Sun Exposure: Full sun; six or more hours of direct sunlight daily
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Soil Needs: Well drained soils; sandy, loamy, rocky, or adaptable garden soil
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Soil pH: Junipers thrive in well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5
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Water Needs: Regular water through the first growing season; low water needs once established
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Drought Tolerance: Skyrocket Juniper is drought tolerant and adaptable to various soil types, thriving in full sun and well-drained conditions, which makes it a low-maintenance option for gardeners
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Hardiness Zones: Commonly grown in hardiness zones 3 through 9; many popular privacy trees and shrubs for milder regions prefer narrower zone ranges
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Maintenance: Junipers are low-input, low-maintenance plants that require minimal supplemental fertilizer after establishment, similar to other evergreen hedging options like English Laurel
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Fertilizer: Fertilization is generally unnecessary for Skyrocket Juniper unless soil deficiencies are present; if fertilizing, use a slow-release fertilizer in early spring and again during the growing season
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Mulch: Mulching around the base of junipers can help retain moisture and suppress weeds, but it should be kept a few inches away from the trunk to prevent bark diseases; this is true for many trees available from our online plant nursery
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Pruning: Junipers should be lightly pruned in early spring to maintain their natural shape and promote airflow
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Pruning Caution: Avoid cutting back into the old, leafless woody interior of junipers, as they will not regenerate new foliage from bare wood
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Disease Prevention: Good airflow around junipers is crucial to preventing fungal diseases in dense foliage
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Watch For: Skyrocket Juniper is resistant to most pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to blights in rainy conditions and root rot in soggy soils
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Avoid: Standing water, poor drainage, heavy shade, and high humidity sites with limited airflow
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Wildlife Notes: Deer resistant; birds may visit mature plants for shelter and small juniper cones, much like they do in larger evergreens such as Monterey Cypress
Who It’s For
Ideal for:
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Homeowners who need a privacy screen in narrow side yards, tight spaces, or along property lines
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Property owners who want low-maintenance evergreen trees with year round color
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Landscapers creating formal garden structure, vertical accent plantings, or architectural designs
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California gardeners looking for drought tolerant evergreens suited to dry soil and water-wise landscapes
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Anyone replacing bulky hedges with a narrow, tall, adaptable tree
Skyrocket Juniper’s upright growth habit allows it to serve as a living fence or windbreak, providing privacy without the bulk of traditional hedges. If you want a clean, tall screen without sacrificing ground space, this tree fits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast does it grow?
Skyrocket Juniper has a fast growth rate of over 12 inches per year. With good sun, well draining soil, and regular watering during establishment, it can reach approximately 12 feet tall and 3 feet wide in about 10 years.
How much space does it need?
Mature Skyrocket Junipers typically grow to be between 15 to 20 feet tall and maintain a width of about 2 to 3 feet. For a privacy screen, plant them in a row with enough room for airflow and full development, commonly about 3 to 4 feet apart.
Is it drought tolerant?
Yes. Establish newly planted junipers by watering regularly for the first growing season, then reduce frequency as they become drought-tolerant. Allow the top two inches of soil to dry completely between waterings for established junipers.
Does it need pruning?
Very little. Junipers should be lightly pruned in early spring to maintain their natural shape and promote airflow. You can also inspect in late winter for damaged branches, but avoid cutting into old bare wood because junipers will not regenerate new foliage from the leafless woody interior.
What soil does it prefer?
Skyrocket Juniper thrives in full sun and well-draining soils, preferring dry conditions and a neutral pH. Junipers thrive in well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, and they can adapt to rocky or mixed soil as long as drainage is strong.
What problems should I avoid?
Poor drainage is the leading cause of root rot in junipers. Avoid standing water, soggy soil, heavy shade, and crowded planting sites with poor airflow. Skyrocket Juniper is resistant to most pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to blights in rainy conditions and root rot in soggy soils.
Ready to Transform Your Space?
Choose Skyrocket Juniper for vertical privacy, silvery blue color, drought tolerance, and a narrow form that works beautifully in modern landscapes, foundation plantings, and urban gardens.
Yardwork can help you choose the right size, confirm sun and soil conditions, plan spacing, and arrange delivery for your planting project through our convenient plant nursery and landscaping services.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
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Thousands of Healthy Plants Delivered
Yardwork was so great to work with. First they had the Swan Hill olive trees that we had been searching for, we had contacted several other nurseries without any luck previously. Then they answered all of our questions in a timely matter prior to ordering and finally delivered within a few days of placing it. Their staff is incredibly knowledgeable; they delivered and planted our trees with expertise to ensure that they would do well in our yard. We would definitely work with them again for future projects.
A Modern Experience
At Yardwork, we carefully curate thousands of plants, in all container sizes, to provide you with the best selection of the highest quality trees and plants at the best price, with the convenience of an online platform.
Uncompromised Quality
We choose only the finest specimens and hand select our plants just before delivery to ensure you receive the freshest and most robust specimens available for your landscape.
Industry Leading Warranties
Our 30, 90, and 365 extended warranties provide some of the best coverage to ensure our trees and plants thrive in your landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
We're committed to changing everything about trees and plants - how they’re grown, how you shop for them, and how much they cost. We handle orders ourselves. No middlemen to get between us (or our prices) and you.
We're committed to changing everything about trees and plants - how they’re grown, how you shop for them, and how much they cost. We handle orders ourselves. No middlemen to get between us (or our prices) and you.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants LARGER than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside (usually on the driveway or near the front doorstep).
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes LARGER than a 24" box size will require equipment and/or enough manpower onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to help coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee as well.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants LARGER than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside (usually on the driveway or near the front doorstep).
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes LARGER than a 24" box size will require equipment and/or enough manpower onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to help coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee as well.
We ship locally within California within 7-10 days of your order being placed.
We ship nationally using carrier partners, based on order size. Our common order minimums for out of state shipping is $5,000.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for specific shipping details for your location.
We ship locally within California within 7-10 days of your order being placed.
We ship nationally using carrier partners, based on order size. Our common order minimums for out of state shipping is $5,000.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for specific shipping details for your location.
We are currently online only and don't have physical locations where you can view plants in person.
That's why we have photos direct from the growing grounds of the plants we will ship and we display pricing right in our store.
We do make sure to pick the very best trees and plants prior to shipping and make sure that they have gone through our multi-point inspection for health and structure.
We will always reach out prior to delivery if we find a quality issue or need to provide a substitute.
We are currently online only and don't have physical locations where you can view plants in person.
That's why we have photos direct from the growing grounds of the plants we will ship and we display pricing right in our store.
We do make sure to pick the very best trees and plants prior to shipping and make sure that they have gone through our multi-point inspection for health and structure.
We will always reach out prior to delivery if we find a quality issue or need to provide a substitute.
Plants vary greatly by type. Here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Shrub/Tree 7-9 Ft. Tall
48" Box Shrub/Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
**Please note that we do not make guarantees of sizes. If you have questions or concerns, please call or text to request accurate sizing for the particular plant you're considering, prior to ordering.
Plants vary greatly by type. Here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Shrub/Tree 7-9 Ft. Tall
48" Box Shrub/Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
**Please note that we do not make guarantees of sizes. If you have questions or concerns, please call or text to request accurate sizing for the particular plant you're considering, prior to ordering.
We offer a limited 30 day warranty for plants that are delivered and planted by someone else and a 90 day warranty for plants that we plant.
The limited warranty covers plants that die as a result of disease or fungus which was derived from our growing grounds or from root balls that were root bound.
The warranty does not cover damage due to watering, fertilizer, soils, or any other conditions beyond our control. Additionally, the warranty does not cover plants that are shipped out of the state of California or shipped into California from other states. Custom plant orders are also not covered under warranty. Plants must be planted within 24 hours after delivery to qualify.
We can assist you in recommending the right soils and fertilizers to help your plant thrive after you plant it.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for further warranty information.
We offer a limited 30 day warranty for plants that are delivered and planted by someone else and a 90 day warranty for plants that we plant.
The limited warranty covers plants that die as a result of disease or fungus which was derived from our growing grounds or from root balls that were root bound.
The warranty does not cover damage due to watering, fertilizer, soils, or any other conditions beyond our control. Additionally, the warranty does not cover plants that are shipped out of the state of California or shipped into California from other states. Custom plant orders are also not covered under warranty. Plants must be planted within 24 hours after delivery to qualify.
We can assist you in recommending the right soils and fertilizers to help your plant thrive after you plant it.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for further warranty information.
Our local delivery team covers most cities in California.
There are some exceptions, so please get in touch to confirm prior to ordering.
Additionally, we ship using semi trucks and trailers throughout the entire United States and even abroad for large orders over $5,000. Each shipment is custom, so please reach out to our team to coordinate.
Our local delivery team covers most cities in California.
There are some exceptions, so please get in touch to confirm prior to ordering.
Additionally, we ship using semi trucks and trailers throughout the entire United States and even abroad for large orders over $5,000. Each shipment is custom, so please reach out to our team to coordinate.