Juniperus communis aka Common Juniper
Taxonomy
Juniperus communis, commonly known as the common juniper, is a versatile species of small tree or shrub in the cypress family Cupressaceae. This evergreen conifer has the largest geographical range of any woody plant, found throughout the cool temperate Northern Hemisphere. It can range in size from a dwarf, prostrate groundcover spreading to 2m or more, to a larger tree. The foliage is small, loosely spreading, and has sharply pointed grey-green leaves with silvery-blue undersides. The fruit of the common juniper is edible and is used as a flavoring in various dishes, including sauerkraut, stuffings, and vegetable pates. It is also a key ingredient in gin production. Medicinally, it possesses antiseptic, aromatherapy, aromatic, carminative, diaphoretic, diuretic, rubefacient, stomachic, and tonic properties. Additionally, many forms of this species serve as excellent ground cover plants for sunny areas. Notable forms to consider include 'Depressa Aurea', 'Dumosa', 'Effusa', and 'Repanda'. The common juniper blooms in brown and yellow, primarily during early to mid-spring, and has an oval, prostrate, spreading or horizontal, or upright form.
Common names
Common Juniper, Juniper, MalchangelHow to care for Common Juniper
Difficulty
Common Juniper presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.
Water
Common Juniper should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Common Juniper loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Common Juniper prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Toxicity
Common Juniper is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
Humidity
No additional humidity is required for the Common Juniper. Plants take in most of their water through their roots, not their leaves, therefore, watering the soil is the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants.
Fertilizer
The growth rate of Common Juniper is slow and it doesn't necessitate additional fertilizing. By changing the soil in its pot annually, the plant should be provided with adequate nutrition. It is crucial to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizers.
Region of origin
Common Juniper’s native range is the Northern Hemisphere.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Juniperus Genus
Juniperus flaccida Mexican Juniper
Juniperus scopulorum Rocky Mountain Juniper
Juniperus squamata Flaky Juniper
Juniperus deppeana Checker Bark Juniper
Juniperus excelsa Crimean Juniper
Juniperus virginiana Eastern Red Cedar
Juniperus californica California Juniper
Juniperus drupacea Andys
Juniperus procumbens Creeping Juniper
