Common juniper - Juniperus communis (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Common juniper

Also known as: Rocky Mountain Juniper, Old Field Juniper, Dwarf juniper, Gound juniper, American Common

The common juniper, the most common of its species, is an evergreen conifer that thrives on every continent. It is grown for the horticultural industry as well as a decorative shrub. The wood is used to make woodcrafts, while the cones are utilized to flavor and enhance various foods. Some Native American cultures use the berries for medicinal purposes.

Scientific classification

Species

Common juniper (Juniperus communis)

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Bloom Time

Summer

Harvest Time

10 m to 16 m

Plant Height

30 cm to 60 cm

Spread

Green, Blue, Gray, Silver

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Black, Blue

Fruit Color

Yellow

Flower Color

Green, Gray, Silver, Yellow

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Images of Common juniper

Attributes of Common juniper

Growth Rate

With a slow growth rate, common juniper uses spring and summer to gently expand. This gradual development, notable for cautious leaf production and incremental height increase, keeps common juniper compact and resilient. This streamlined growth strategy enables survival in tough conditions, a remarkable horticultural attribute of common juniper.

Distribution of Common juniper

Distribution Map

Common juniper has a large native range spanning most of the Northern Hemisphere. With such a widespread base of origin, there has been no favorable habitat left for it to be introduced into. This tree can be found growing in a variety of forest habitats, rock outcroppings, and alongside fields or roads. It is also planted in gardens throughout its native range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Where there is the least sunshine and most rain

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Common juniper is a popular tree in the landscaping of many yards prized for its thick needles, which give a full and lush appearance. Often used as a hedge in front of homes, when allowed to grow larger it can also become a natural privacy and noise-reduction barrier. Plant holly bushes with common juniper to add texture to the area.

Symbolism

Protection, Anti-Theft Love

Name Story

Common juniper: Juniperus communis is one of Ireland's longest established plants. The Juniper name is derived from the latin word juniperus. In latin, juniperus is a combination of the word junio, which means young, and parere, to produce. Hence, the name means youth producing, or evergreen. Moreover, it is one of the most common species in the genus, so it is called common juniper.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Common juniper, including the following common varieties :

Common juniper 'Repanda'Common juniper 'Hibernica'Common juniper 'Green Carpet'

Toxicity

Common juniper is mildly toxic to cats and dogs, especially if large quantities of seeds, leaves, and fruits are ingested. The volatile oil thujone is responsible, causing gastrointestinal upset and distress. Immediate veterinary care is crucial if signs of poisoning appear. Common juniper is also sometimes used in medicinal and culinary contexts, risking accidental overdosing. Seek professional help if poisoning is suspected.

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Care Guide for Common juniper

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Common juniper thrives in drier environments and requires watering once every 1-2 weeks, reflecting its drought-resistant nature. As an evergreen, common juniper retains moisture effectively, maintaining its foliage year-round despite variations in seasonal rainfall.

Fertilize: Common juniper requires annual fertilization in early spring with balanced fertilizers to promote growth and berry production. Over-fertilization can cause root burn, so it's important to adjust quantity during active growth phases. Mix fertilizer gently into the soil at the base and water thoroughly afterward.

Pruning: Common juniper is an evergreen shrub characterized by needle-like leaves and berry-like cones. Prune lightly in early spring to enhance air circulation and shape, while avoiding heavy pruning due to its slow growth. This practice promotes health and can help prevent disease.

Propagation: Common juniper is propagated using cuttings from healthy, semi-hardwood sections, treated with rooting hormone, and planted in well-draining soil. Maintaining moisture and warmth helps root development, ensuring new plants retain desirable traits from the parent.

Repotting: Repot common juniper every 2-3 years in early spring using a large, well-draining pot. Ensure ample sunlight and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot, promoting healthy growth and longevity for common juniper.

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