How to Grow Eastern Red Cedar 'Silver Spreader'
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Eastern Red Cedar 'Silver Spreader'
Juniperus virginiana 'Silver Spreader'
shrub'Silver Spreader' is a low-growing, spreading cultivar of Eastern Red Cedar with silvery-blue foliage and a prostrate, mat-forming habit. It reaches only 12-18 inches tall but spreads 4-6 feet wide, making it ideal for ground cover and landscape borders. The foliage is soft, feathery, and maintains its silvery-blue color year-round.
When should you plant Eastern Red Cedar 'Silver Spreader' in your zone?
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Example Eastern Red Cedar 'Silver Spreader' timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Eastern Red Cedar 'Silver Spreader'
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Eastern Red Cedar 'Silver Spreader'
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9, extremely cold-hardy and adaptable to most climates
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Get my Eastern Red Cedar 'Silver Spreader' timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
First yearYoung plant with limited branching and slower growth; foliage may appear less vibrant
Water regularly during first growing season to encourage root development; protect from extreme wind; apply 2-3 inches of mulch around base, keeping away from stem
Vegetative Growth
Year 2-3Plant develops horizontal spreading branches with silvery-blue needle-like foliage; rapid lateral expansion begins
Maintain moderate moisture; no fertilizer needed for healthy plants; light pruning to shape if desired; mulch helps retain moisture during hot summers
Mature Spread
Year 3 onwardsPlant reaches full width of 4-6 feet with dense, uniform mat-like form and intense silvery-blue color
Drought-tolerant; only water during extreme heat or drought; no fertilizer required; minimal pruning needed unless controlling size; deadhead inconspicuous blue fruits if desired
Flowering and Fruiting
Spring flowering, fruit develops summer-fallSmall inconspicuous flowers appear in spring; blue, berry-like cones (modified seeds) develop by fall and persist
No special care needed; fruits are attractive to birds and wildlife; fruits can be left on plant or removed for cleaner appearance
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick bags in winter; spray with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) in early summer when bagworms are small; dormant oil in late winter
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Spray with water to dislodge; insecticidal soap; increase humidity; neem oil for severe infestations
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Dormant oil spray in early spring; insecticidal soap in summer; horticultural oil
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Remove infected branch tips; improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; fungicide spray in spring if severe
Uses
Ground Cover and Border Plant
Landscape'Silver Spreader' is an excellent low-maintenance ground cover for difficult, dry areas, rocky slopes, and erosion control. Its prostrate habit and dense foliage create attractive year-round color and require minimal pruning. [source]
Wildlife Habitat and Food Source
WildlifeThe blue berry-like cones attract cedar waxwings, robins, and other birds throughout fall and winter. The dense foliage provides shelter for small mammals and birds. [source]
Aromatic Foliage and Craft
HouseholdThe naturally aromatic foliage can be used in dried arrangements, wreaths, and craft projects. The silvery-blue color is prized in floral design and holds color well when dried. [source]
Traditional Herbal Uses
MedicinalJuniper species have long been used in traditional medicine and herbal preparations. The essential oil contains compounds with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. [source]
Flavoring Agent
CulinaryJuniper berries (the blue cones) are used in gin production and traditional European cuisine, though Eastern Red Cedar is less commonly used than other juniper species for this purpose. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
This is an ornamental shrub, not harvested for food. For medicinal or herbal uses, harvest foliage in late spring or summer. For craft purposes, branches can be cut year-round for arrangements; silvery-blue fruits are attractive in fall. Cut sprigs when foliage is dry to minimize stress on plant.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Despite its common name 'Eastern Red Cedar,' Juniperus virginiana is actually a true juniper, not a cedar, and is the most abundant juniper species in eastern North America.
- 🌱 'Silver Spreader' was selected specifically for its attractive silvery-blue foliage that intensifies in winter and its extremely low-growing form, making it ideal for modern landscape design.
- 🌱 Eastern Red Cedar produces volatile aromatic compounds that naturally repel insects and fungi, which is why the wood and foliage have been traditionally used for moth-resistant chests and closets.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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