Juniperus communis var. communis

Common juniper is a coniferous evergreen shrub or small tree with the largest geographical range of any woody plant. Confers do not bear flowers, but the short needles are tightly crowded on the twig, 3 at a whorl, and fleshy seed cones, bluish and berry-like, create a winter interest. Many forms of this species make good ground cover plants in sunny sites. This plant is seldom damaged by deer. Small, yellow cones appear in spring but are not considered ornamentally attractive. Male and female cones are produced on separate plants. Female plants produce 1/2 inch wide, fleshy, fruit-like seed cones commonly referred to as juniper berries. Berries are used for a number of purposes including flavoring gin. The genus name comes from the Latin for the juniper. The species name means common.

Common juniper does well in sandy, loamy, and clay soils, but prefers medium moisture, well-drained soil in full sun. It will tolerate heavy clay, nutritionally poor soils, and very acid and very alkaline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland). Established plants tolerate drought and this species of Juniper is noted for a superior tolerance for cold temperatures as well as heat and humidity. However, Common juniper is not recommended for locations south of USDA Zone 6.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems: Problems include cedar apple rust and wilt. Insect problems include mites, borers, scale, midges and bagworms. The fruit of this plant is often used medicinally and as a flavouring in various foods and drinks; however, large doses of the fruit can cause renal damage. See the "Pests of Conifers" fact sheet to the left.

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common juniper diseases and insect pests.