Shrubs

Juniperus horizontalis 'Mother Lode'

Mother Lode creeping juniper

Mother Lode creeping juniper. Representative plant

A very low evergreen carpet with bright golden foliage that develops bronze tones in winter. Its trailing branches spread widely and can root where they touch soil. Use it on sunny slopes or bed edges where its broad habit has room.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun
Mature size: 4–6 in. tall × 8–10 ft. wide
Water: Well-drained soil; avoid prolonged wetness
Hardiness: USDA zones 3–7

Sizes & prices

#2Green & white variegated low growing juniper$32.99

Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

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Resistance & tolerances

Deer: Resistant; not browse-proof.
Drought: Tolerant once established.
Wet soil: Avoid waterlogged soil; root rot can develop.
Salt: Fairly tolerant.

Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.

Native range

Native range / parentage: Cultivar of a North American native species.

Seasonal interest

Foliage: Evergreen.

Growing & care

Pruning: Little pruning needed; keep cuts within leafy growth, not bare old wood.

Sources & photo credits

NC State Extension

Royal Horticultural Society

Photo: Jay Sturner · CC BY 2.0

Image notes: Mother Lode creeping juniper. Representative plant; resized and re-encoded, not cropped.

Reviewed September 21, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.