Common Juniper (Juniperus communis): Wide-Ranging Conifer for Gin, Wildlife, and Landscape

Overview

Common juniper (Juniperus communis) is the most widely distributed conifer in the world, ranging across the Northern Hemisphere. It varies from a low, spreading shrub to a small tree (up to 30 feet). Needle-like leaves in whorls of three; female plants produce fleshy, blue-black "berries" (cones) that take 2-3 years to ripen.

Botanical Details

• Family: Cupressaceae (cypress family)
• Genus: Juniperus
• Species: communis
• Synonyms: numerous varietal names (saxatilis, alpina, nana, jackii, J. sibirica)

Uses & Culture

Full sun, well-drained soil. Extremely drought- and cold-tolerant. Berries flavor gin, game meats, sauerkraut; medicinal (diuretic, antiseptic). Oil from berries/wood. Wildlife food and cover. Many cultivars for landscaping (groundcovers, specimens). Slow-growing. Hardy in USDA zones 2-7.