Hansen's Northwest Native Plant Database

Juniperus communis (Common Juniper)

Kingdom Plantae – Plants

Subkingdom Tracheobionta – Vascular plants

Superdivision Spermatophyta – Seed plants

Division Coniferophyta – Conifers

Class Pinopsida

Order Pinales

Family Cupressaceae – Cypress family

Genus Juniperus L. – juniper

Species Juniperus communis L. – common juniper

Variety Juniperus communis L. var. saxatilis Pall. – common juniper

This is a far-reaching tree form of juniper, which can be found in regions of North America, Asia, and Europe.

While junipers are mostly considered coniferous shrubs, this one reaches from 6-20’ and can be as wide with an upright habit.

Expect it to grow larger in lower elevations.

Sun and good drainage are all that is necessary to grow this drought tolerant plant once it is established.

The berries appear at about 3 years of age and have long been used to flavor gin.

Native Americans used the reddish brown bark and the needles to make medicine for upper respiratory ailments.

Common Juniper can be grown in USDA zones 1-9 and is very adaptable.