Siberian Carpet (Microbiota decussata) is underused in Connecticut landscapes.

For one thing, Siberian Carpet looks like a Juniper without the prickliness. As a matter of fact, you can run your hand over the shrub without scratching.

In addition, it likes partial shade and average to dry soils. Most literature doesn’t recommend planting in full sun but the shrub will do great under those conditions.

Siberian Carpet may become leggy after several years. Therefore, use selective pruning to keep it in bounds. Another small issue is trapping leaves in the fall and winter. As a result, it’s going to take a little extra time for cleanup.

Plant in odd-numbered groupings and let it grow together for maximum effect.

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