Juniperus chinensis 'Spartan'
Light: Full sun; in Phoenix, avoid intense reflected heat from west-facing walls and pavement. Light afternoon shade is acceptable.
Water: Water deeply and regularly during establishment. Once established, let the upper several inches of soil dry between deep waterings; supplemental irrigation is needed during Phoenix summers. Containers require more frequent checks.
Soil: Well-drained sandy, gravelly, or loamy soil; tolerates alkaline conditions. Avoid waterlogged soil and planting sites with poor drainage.
Mature size: Commonly maintained around 5–8 feet tall and 2–4 feet wide as a three-ball topiary, depending on its starting form. Untrimmed plants can reach 15–20 feet tall and 4–6 feet wide.
Bloom: Produces small, inconspicuous reproductive cones rather than flowers, generally in spring.
Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen.
Growth rate: Moderate to fast when untrimmed; regular clipping limits topiary growth.