Prickly juniper (Juniperus oxycedrus)

Prickly juniper

Also known as: Spanish cedar, Berried cedar

Prickly juniper (Juniperus oxycedrus) is an evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region and Middle East, distinguishable by its needle-like leaves and stripping bark. It produces green to crimson orange berry-like fruits. The tree's strong and durable wood makes it ideal for furniture making. Its oils are collected from its leaves and branches as an ingredient for soaps and perfumes.

Scientific classification

Species

Prickly juniper (Juniperus oxycedrus)

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Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

15 m

Plant Height

3 m

Spread

Green, Blue, Variegated

Leaf Color

Yellow, Green, Orange

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

Images of Prickly juniper

Toxicity

Prickly juniper poses moderate toxicity to humans, cats, and dogs, with all plant parts being harmful if ingested. Toxic compounds include etheric oils, triterpene, and phenols, causing gastrointestinal distress and more severe reactions. Immediate veterinary care is crucial for pets showing poisoning symptoms like vomiting, abdominal pain, and skin irritation.

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Care Guide for Prickly juniper

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Prickly juniper is a drought-tolerant plant suited for arid environments, requiring watering once every 1-2 weeks. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, and as an evergreen, it retains foliage year-round, minimizing water loss through transpiration.

Fertilize: To maximize growth, prickly juniper thrives on balanced fertilizers like a 10-10-10 mix, applied every 4-6 weeks in spring. Use 1 tablespoon per square foot and avoid excess nitrogen. Cut back during dormancy, incorporating gently into the soil, and water thoroughly after application.

Pruning: Prickly juniper requires minimal pruning. To enhance fullness, trim top buds regularly to stimulate lateral bud growth. In winter, remove old or diseased branches and thin dense areas to improve ventilation and light access, reducing pest and disease risks.

Propagation: Prickly juniper is a resilient evergreen shrub, thriving in diverse conditions. Propagate by cleaning ripe berries to extract seeds, then sow them shallowly in well-draining soil under partial shade. Maintaining consistent moisture is essential for successful germination, which may be slow.

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