Juniper Trees | Juniperus

Choosing & Growing Juniper Trees

There are over 60 species of Juniperus varying greatly in shape. Upright or columnar Juniper trees are great for screening, narrower spaces and creating a focal point in any garden or landscaped area. Low spreading Juniper bushes won't reach much more than 1m in height and are perfect for growing in areas where ground cover is wanted or space is restricted (their width can easily be pruned).

They add texture and colour to gardens with their awl-like or scale-like conifer needles that stay on the tree year-round and come in varying shades of blue, green and golden yellow. Berries are typically blue but do vary between varieties.

Juniperus are easy to grow, requiring little attention and many varieties can tolerate urban pollution or exposed positions. Juniper species originate from the Arctic right through to Africa and Central America, with most being tolerant to drought and disliking wet soil.

Interesting Facts About Juniper Trees

• Junipers are, alongside Yew, the only conifers to produce berries.
• Female plants produce the berry-like fleshy seed cones, whereas male ones produce small pollen cones with a catkin-like appearance.
• Juniper berries have many uses, from flavouring gin to being used in medicine to treat digestive and respiratory problems.
• The word "gin" is an abbreviation of the Dutch name for Juniper which is "Genever".
• The berries have been presented to new parents in celebration of the birth of a baby boy.
• Crushed Juniper leaves smell like lemons or apples, depending on the variety. Oils for aromatherapy uses can be produced from steam distilling the leaves, berries and twigs of some varieties.
• In some areas of the World, Juniper trees were thought to deter witches or the devil. Cuttings were traditionally hung on doorways on May Day and burnt on Halloween to ward off evil spirits.
• Juniper wood, which is particularly aromatic, is often used for wood turning and carving.