Juniper vs. Cedar: Blue Berry Identification and Size Range

The shrub with blue berries used for Christmas decorating is eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana) — which IS a juniper, not a true cedar.

Taxonomic Clarity

• Eastern red cedar = Juniperus virginiana (juniper genus).
• True cedars = Cedrus genus (Atlas, Deodar, Lebanon cedar) — different family.
• Common name confusion: "Cedar" applied to many aromatic conifers.

Size Range

• Groundcovers: J. horizontalis cultivars (6-18 inches).
• Shrubs: J. chinensis cultivars (3-10 feet).
• Trees: J. virginiana (40+ feet) — the Christmas berry source.

Selection Advice

Visit local nurseries for cultivars suited to your site — size, form, and berry production vary enormously within Juniperus.

The "cedar" with blue berries is a juniper — choose the right species for your space.