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Skyrocket Juniper
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Zones 4-9
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1-year guaranteeShips in 1–5 daysReal plant experts
From our farm to your front door
- Shipped in its nursery pot, so the roots stay undisturbed
- Soil secured so it stays put in transit
- Packed so the plant stays steady on the way to you
At a glance
- Sunlight
- Full Sun
- Water
- When the top 2–3" of soil is dry
- Growth & size
- Moderate to fast growth rate. Typically growing at a rate of about 6 to 12 inches per year. At maturity, the Skyrocket Juniper can reach a height of about 15 to 20 feet and a width of only 2 to 3 feet.
- Botanical name
- Juniperus scopulorum 'Skyrocket'
- Hardiness
- Zones 4-9
- Tolerates
- Cold hardyHeat tolerantDrought tolerantWind tolerant
Where it grows in the groundShaded areas are the zones where it can be planted outdoors.
Not sure it'll thrive where you live?Real people who answer questions before and after planting.
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Size guide & what arrives
Size Facts
| *Trade size | **Pot size |
|---|---|
| 1 gallon | 6" |
| 3 gallon | 8 to 10" |
| 5 gallon | 10 to 12" |
| 7 gallon | 14" |
| 10 gallon | 15 to 17" |
| 15 gallon | 17" |
| "Jumbo" | 7 or 10 or 15 gallon |
*Nursery gallon sizes are trade sizes and do not equal standard liquid gallons.
**Pot sizes in inches refer to container width (diameter), not plant or pot height.
Please note: Sizing can differ between plant varieties and growers. Please chat with us if you need clarification.
For more information on sizing, please see our sizing guide.
What arrives
Good to know
Skyrocket Juniper’s narrow growth can make it more susceptible to wind damage, so consider staking or placing it in a protected area if you live in a windy region.
What customers are saying
4.4
out of 5 · 14 verified reviews
rated it 4 or 5 stars
Why customers love it
Healthy, well-rooted plants
Hand-selected and shipped in its nursery pot.
Delivered to your door
Skip the nursery trip. Very little car Tetris required.
Real plant experts
Ask us anything before or after planting.
1-year guarantee
If something goes wrong, we'll help make it right.
Care made simple
Plant it right once and it does the rest.
Sun
Full Sun
Pick the spot before you dig.
Water
When the top 2–3" of soil is dry
Water slowly and deeply. Check more often in its first summer.
Grows in
Zones 4-9
Enter your ZIP above to check your zone.
Your first year together
- 1Day 1
Plant it, then water slowly until the whole root ball is soaked.
- 2First few weeks
Keep the soil evenly moist while new roots settle in.
- 3First summer
Water deeply during hot, dry spells.
- 4Next spring
New growth starts. Feed as it wakes up.
Planting instructions
Plant the Skyrocket Juniper in well-drained soil with full sun exposure for optimal growth. In containers, ensure the pot has sufficient drainage holes to prevent waterlogged roots. When planting in the ground, dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball, place the juniper, and backfill with soil, gently firming it around the base. Water thoroughly after planting to help the plant establish its roots. For container planting, use a high-quality potting mix and avoid overwatering.
Watering & sunlight
Watering needs are never one-size-fits-all. Weather, soil type, drainage, plant size, and planting time all affect how quickly a plant dries out.
Use a slow-running hose, soaker hose, or drip system to water the root ball and surrounding root zone thoroughly. Allow the water to penetrate deeply (not just wet the top few inches of soil), and avoid frequent, shallow watering.
Before watering again, check the soil 3–4 inches deep near the root ball. If it feels dry, repeat this deep-watering process. If it feels moist or soggy, wait and check again in 1–2 days. Check the soil of newly planted trees and shrubs several times per week, especially during hot, dry, or windy weather.
Irrigation run times will vary based on flow rate, soil, and system setup.
Need help? Contact our plant experts for watering guidance tailored to your plant and growing conditions.
Skyrocket Juniper thrives in full sun, receiving at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Use a slow-running hose, soaker hose, or drip system to water the root ball and surrounding root zone thoroughly. Allow the water to penetrate deeply (not just wet the top few inches of soil), and avoid frequent, shallow watering.
Before watering again, check the soil 3–4 inches deep near the root ball. If it feels dry, repeat this deep-watering process. If it feels moist or soggy, wait and check again in 1–2 days. Check the soil of newly planted trees and shrubs several times per week, especially during hot, dry, or windy weather.
Irrigation run times will vary based on flow rate, soil, and system setup.
Need help? Contact our plant experts for watering guidance tailored to your plant and growing conditions.
Skyrocket Juniper thrives in full sun, receiving at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Care guide
What does "Jumbo" mean?
Shipping & what's inside
Your plant ships in its nursery pot with the soil secured, packed so it stays steady on the way to you.
1-year guarantee
Every plant is covered by our 1-year guarantee. If something goes wrong, contact our team and we'll walk you through it.
Answered by Simply Trees plant expertsHow big do Skyrocket Junipers get?
Skyrocket Junipers are known for their tall, slender, and columnar growth habit. They typically reach a height of 15 to 20 feet at maturity, while their width remains relatively narrow, typically around 2 to 3 feet. This upright and narrow growth makes them well-suited for vertical accents in landscaping and as a privacy screen.
How fast do Skyrocket Junipers grow?
Skyrocket Junipers grow at a moderate rate, typically adding 6 to 18 inches of height per year under ideal conditions.
They’re faster-growing than many other upright junipers, making them a popular choice for creating privacy screens or vertical accents fairly quickly. Growth may slow in poor soil, low sunlight, or during drought, so for best results, plant in full sun with well-draining soil and water regularly during establishment.
They’re faster-growing than many other upright junipers, making them a popular choice for creating privacy screens or vertical accents fairly quickly. Growth may slow in poor soil, low sunlight, or during drought, so for best results, plant in full sun with well-draining soil and water regularly during establishment.
Are Skyrocket Junipers hardy?
Skyrocket Junipers are generally healthy and hardy trees when grown in suitable conditions. They are known for their resilience and adaptability to various climates and soil types. However, like all plants, their health depends on factors such as proper care, adequate watering, suitable soil, and protection from pests and diseases. With the right care and maintenance, Skyrocket Junipers can remain healthy and thrive in your landscaping.
How far apart do you plant Skyrocket Junipers for privacy?
When planting Skyrocket Junipers for privacy screens or hedges, you should space them approximately 3 to 5 feet apart. This spacing allows the trees to grow together over time, forming a dense and effective privacy barrier. Keep in mind that the specific spacing may vary depending on your desired level of privacy and the mature width of the junipers in your growing conditions.
What can I plant next to Skyrocket Juniper?
When planting next to Skyrocket Junipers, consider companion plants that complement their upright and narrow growth while providing visual interest. Here are some suitable options:
Low-Growing Shrubs: Plant low-growing shrubs like Dwarf Spirea or Blue Star Juniper to contrast with the height of the Skyrocket Junipers.
Perennial Flowers: Add perennial flowers such as Coneflowers, Salvia, or Daylilies for seasonal color and variety.
Ornamental Grasses: Ornamental grasses like Feather Reed Grass or Karl Foerster Grass can provide texture and movement in the garden.
Ground Covers: Consider ground covers like Creeping Phlox or Sedum to fill in the spaces between the junipers.
Evergreen Plants: Other evergreen plants like Boxwood or Wintergreen can provide year-round structure and color.
When choosing companion plants, consider factors such as sunlight, soil conditions, and water requirements to ensure compatibility with the Skyrocket Junipers and create an appealing landscape design.
Low-Growing Shrubs: Plant low-growing shrubs like Dwarf Spirea or Blue Star Juniper to contrast with the height of the Skyrocket Junipers.
Perennial Flowers: Add perennial flowers such as Coneflowers, Salvia, or Daylilies for seasonal color and variety.
Ornamental Grasses: Ornamental grasses like Feather Reed Grass or Karl Foerster Grass can provide texture and movement in the garden.
Ground Covers: Consider ground covers like Creeping Phlox or Sedum to fill in the spaces between the junipers.
Evergreen Plants: Other evergreen plants like Boxwood or Wintergreen can provide year-round structure and color.
When choosing companion plants, consider factors such as sunlight, soil conditions, and water requirements to ensure compatibility with the Skyrocket Junipers and create an appealing landscape design.
Are junipers better than arborvitae?
Whether Junipers or Arborvitae are better depends on your specific landscaping needs and preferences. Both have their advantages:
Junipers:
Junipers like Skyrocket are known for their rapid vertical growth and slender form, making them great for creating tall privacy screens.
They are drought-tolerant and require minimal maintenance once established.
Junipers come in various varieties, offering different shapes and colors.
Arborvitae:
Arborvitae, like Thuja Green Giant, are also used for privacy screens but have a more dense and uniform growth habit.
They are relatively low-maintenance and respond well to pruning.
Arborvitae can tolerate a range of soil conditions and provide year-round green foliage.
The choice between Junipers and Arborvitae depends on factors such as the desired height, density, and appearance of the screen you want to create, as well as the specific growing conditions in your area. Feel free to ask one of our experts if you need more guidance!
Junipers:
Junipers like Skyrocket are known for their rapid vertical growth and slender form, making them great for creating tall privacy screens.
They are drought-tolerant and require minimal maintenance once established.
Junipers come in various varieties, offering different shapes and colors.
Arborvitae:
Arborvitae, like Thuja Green Giant, are also used for privacy screens but have a more dense and uniform growth habit.
They are relatively low-maintenance and respond well to pruning.
Arborvitae can tolerate a range of soil conditions and provide year-round green foliage.
The choice between Junipers and Arborvitae depends on factors such as the desired height, density, and appearance of the screen you want to create, as well as the specific growing conditions in your area. Feel free to ask one of our experts if you need more guidance!
Why are my Skyrocket Junipers turning brown?
Skyrocket Junipers may turn brown for various reasons, including:
Winter Dormancy: It's natural for the foliage of evergreen trees like Skyrocket Junipers to turn a slightly brownish or bronze color in the winter as they enter a period of dormancy. This is a protective mechanism to conserve moisture and energy during cold months.
Watering Issues: Insufficient or irregular watering, especially during dry periods, can lead to browning. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Disease or Pest Infestations: Junipers can be susceptible to diseases like blight or infestations by pests such as spider mites. Inspect your plants for signs of disease or pests and take appropriate measures if necessary.
Environmental Stress: Extreme weather conditions, including hot and dry spells, can stress the plants and lead to browning. Provide appropriate care during such conditions.
Soil Problems: Soil issues, such as poor drainage or soil compaction, can affect root health and foliage color. Ensure proper soil conditions.
Pruning Mistakes: Incorrect pruning or trimming at the wrong time of year can damage the foliage and cause browning. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Identifying the specific cause of browning and addressing it accordingly is essential for the health and vitality of your Skyrocket Junipers.
Winter Dormancy: It's natural for the foliage of evergreen trees like Skyrocket Junipers to turn a slightly brownish or bronze color in the winter as they enter a period of dormancy. This is a protective mechanism to conserve moisture and energy during cold months.
Watering Issues: Insufficient or irregular watering, especially during dry periods, can lead to browning. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Disease or Pest Infestations: Junipers can be susceptible to diseases like blight or infestations by pests such as spider mites. Inspect your plants for signs of disease or pests and take appropriate measures if necessary.
Environmental Stress: Extreme weather conditions, including hot and dry spells, can stress the plants and lead to browning. Provide appropriate care during such conditions.
Soil Problems: Soil issues, such as poor drainage or soil compaction, can affect root health and foliage color. Ensure proper soil conditions.
Pruning Mistakes: Incorrect pruning or trimming at the wrong time of year can damage the foliage and cause browning. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Identifying the specific cause of browning and addressing it accordingly is essential for the health and vitality of your Skyrocket Junipers.
What color is the Skyrocket Juniper?
The Skyrocket Juniper typically has foliage that is a silver-blue to a blue-green color. The specific shade may vary slightly depending on growing conditions and the age of the plant.
What are the differences between Skyrocket Juniper and Blue Arrow Juniper?
Skyrocket Juniper and Blue Arrow Juniper are both narrow, upright evergreens with a similar columnar shape, but there are a few key differences between them in terms of appearance and growth habits:
Color:
Skyrocket has silvery blue-green foliage, while Blue Arrow offers a deeper, steel blue tone that stands out more in the landscape.
Form:
Skyrocket is narrow but slightly more open and airy in appearance. Blue Arrow is more compact and dense, holding a tighter, more formal shape.
Size at Maturity:
Skyrocket grows 15–20 feet tall and 2–3 feet wide. Blue Arrow stays slightly shorter at 12–15 feet tall and around 2 feet wide.
Growth Rate:
Both have a moderate growth rate, but Skyrocket may grow slightly faster in ideal conditions.
Cold Hardiness:
Both are hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Blue Arrow may have a slight edge in wind and cold tolerance due to its denser growth habit.
Best Use:
Skyrocket is great for adding vertical height and soft texture to the landscape. Blue Arrow is better for tight spaces, formal plantings, or when a neat, slender shape is preferred.
Summary:
Choose Skyrocket for a taller, classic juniper look. Choose Blue Arrow if you want a cleaner, more intense blue color with a lower-maintenance, upright shape.
Color:
Skyrocket has silvery blue-green foliage, while Blue Arrow offers a deeper, steel blue tone that stands out more in the landscape.
Form:
Skyrocket is narrow but slightly more open and airy in appearance. Blue Arrow is more compact and dense, holding a tighter, more formal shape.
Size at Maturity:
Skyrocket grows 15–20 feet tall and 2–3 feet wide. Blue Arrow stays slightly shorter at 12–15 feet tall and around 2 feet wide.
Growth Rate:
Both have a moderate growth rate, but Skyrocket may grow slightly faster in ideal conditions.
Cold Hardiness:
Both are hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Blue Arrow may have a slight edge in wind and cold tolerance due to its denser growth habit.
Best Use:
Skyrocket is great for adding vertical height and soft texture to the landscape. Blue Arrow is better for tight spaces, formal plantings, or when a neat, slender shape is preferred.
Summary:
Choose Skyrocket for a taller, classic juniper look. Choose Blue Arrow if you want a cleaner, more intense blue color with a lower-maintenance, upright shape.
Do Skyrocket Junipers have berries?
Yes, Skyrocket Junipers are known to produce berries. These berries are small and typically have a bluish-black color. They are a feature of many juniper species, including Skyrocket Junipers, and can add ornamental value to the plant.
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