Juniperus excelsa aka Crimean Juniper

Juniperus excelsa is an evergreen tree called Greek or Grecian juniper. It belongs to the cypress family, Cupressaceae. Its native range spans southern Europe and parts of Asia. Reported countries include Greece, Turkey, Cyprus, Iran, and Pakistan. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. PFAF records it in dry mountain ranges of the Himalayas. There, it grows at 4,920–13,780 feet [1,500–4,200 metres].

The tree can reach about 66 feet [20 metres] tall. Its leaves stay on the tree throughout the year. Crushed foliage gives off a warm, resin-like scent. The roots spread near the surface rather than growing deep. This shallow root pattern matters when choosing nearby plants. PFAF lists the tree for the canopy of woodland gardens. Its lasting foliage and tree form provide the main garden structure.

Most trees bear either male or female reproductive structures. Some trees carry both sexes, but this is less usual. Wind carries the pollen, and the species is not self-fertile. Grow male and female trees together if seed is needed. The rounded cones measure about 0.28–0.47 inches across. They take two years to mature, with seeds ripening in October. Seed raising can take time because the seed coat is hard. Seeds may need repeated cold and warm periods before sprouting.

Choose a sunny site with soil that drains well. This tree does not grow in shade. It accepts sandy, loamy, and clay soils when drainage suits it. Neutral to slightly alkaline soil is preferred, though mildly acid soil also works. It can grow on chalk and in strongly alkaline ground. PFAF reports that it accepts both dry and moist soil. Young plants are tender and need a sheltered spot. PFAF lists USDA hardiness zones 5–9.

PFAF records the fruit as edible, either raw or cooked. It reports no known hazards, but gives no pet-specific safety details. The bark has served as roofing material. The fragrant wood has uses in building, fuel, and incense. PFAF also records a traditional medicinal use of branch smoke in India. That record does not establish safety or effectiveness. The supplied sources name no specific pests or diseases. PFAF does not flag the tree as weedy.