Juniperus scopulorum aka Rocky Mountain Juniper

Juniperus scopulorum is known as Rocky Mountain juniper or Colorado redcedar. This evergreen tree belongs to the cypress family. Its native range runs from western Canada to northern Mexico. It grows on dry, rocky ridges and in open woods. Garden trees reach 30–40 feet (9.1–12.2 metres) tall. Their spread is often 10–15 feet (3–4.6 metres). RHS gives larger sizes, reaching 49 feet (15 metres) tall. It also lists spreads up to 26 feet (8 metres).

Growth is slow, with a narrow cone-shaped or columnar crown. Older trees may develop a more open or rounded crown. Several main stems can grow from the same base. The red-brown or gray bark peels into thin strips. Small twigs are smooth; larger ones shed flakes of bark. Adult leaves form tiny scales in opposite pairs. They hug the twigs and range from green to blue-green. Young leaves look more like sharp needles. The foliage has a musty scent and stays through winter.

Small yellow male flowers appear from mid-April to mid-June. Female flowers are green-yellow, and wind carries the pollen. Male and female flowers usually grow on separate trees. The round, fleshy seed cones look like small berries. They turn blue-purple beneath a pale, waxy coat. Each cone holds one to three seeds. Cones ripen in their second year, from fall into winter. They can stay on the tree until the next spring. Birds eat them and spread the seeds.

Grow this tree in full sun with good soil drainage. It accepts sand, loam, clay, and varied soil pH. It tolerates drought, but wet ground can cause root rot. High humidity and warm nights can also cause trouble. Sources place its cold limit in USDA zones 3 or 4. Florida lists suitability through zone 9; RHS rates it H6. It needs little pruning and suits screens, hedges, and specimen planting. It offers birds cover and nest sites. Its scented, decay-resistant wood serves for posts, chests, and lumber.

Possible pests include aphids, bagworms, scale, webworms, and mites. Twig blight, rust, canker, and honey fungus may occur. Wet springs can bring twig dieback, while ice can damage growth. The tree also burns readily. PFAF records food uses for the fruit and young shoots. These include flavouring, tea, and a roasted-fruit coffee substitute. However, RHS warns that eating it can cause harm. Contact can also trigger skin allergy, so food records need caution.