Juniperus chinensis Gold Lace, commonly known as Gold Lace Juniper, is a compact, evergreen shrub prized for its bright golden-yellow foliage that provides year-round color and texture. This slow-growing conifer typically reaches 3 to 5 feet tall and 4 to 6 feet wide, forming a spreading, mounded habit. Its finely textured needles emerge vivid gold in spring and retain their color well throughout the year, especially with good sun exposure. Drought-tolerant once established and resistant to deer and most pests, Juniperus chinensis Gold Lace is a versatile addition to borders, slopes, and foundation plantings.

Why choose Juniperus chinensis Gold Lace

Year-round golden color: Adds brightness and contrast in all seasons

Low-maintenance evergreen: Drought- and deer-tolerant once established

Compact, spreading habit: Useful for edging, massing, or foundation planting

Cultivating tips

Sun exposure: Full sun for best foliage color and density

Soil needs: Well-drained soils; tolerates poor, sandy, or rocky conditions

Maintenance: Very low—prune lightly to shape if needed

Designs for your garden

Foundation plantings: Provides evergreen color without overwhelming space

Rock gardens and slopes: Thrives in tough sites with good drainage

Mass plantings or borders: Creates a bright, uniform low hedge or groundcover

Ecological benefits

Erosion control: Spreading roots help stabilize soil on slopes

Wildlife value: Provides cover for birds and small creatures

Low input: Requires little water or care once established

Similar native alternatives

Looking for a native option? Here are three native plants that offer similar seasonal interest and landscape value:

• Thuja occidentalis Nigra – Dark American Arborvitae
• Thuja plicata Virescens – Virescens Arborvitae
• Thuja occidentalis Elegantissima – Elegantissima Arborvitae
• Picea pungens Globosa – Spruce
• Ilex glabra Gembox® – Gembox Inkberry