Description

The common juniper is one of the few California natives with a distribution that spans the entire northern hemisphere. In California it is found in alpine settings in the Klamath Ranges and central Sierra Nevada. The growth form of the common juniper varies throughout its range. The saxatilis variety grows as a prostrate shrub to about three feet or so. The fragrant needles are short and grow densely along each stem. The berry-like cones are blue in color but have a waxy coating which gives them a silver appearance. Common juniper is a rather hardy and adaptable plant, although full sun exposure should be avoided. Consider this low-growing conifer for the foreground of a large manzanita in partial shade, such as Arctostaphylos bakeri ‘Louis Edmunds.’ The manzanita will appreciate the juniper’s acidic leaf litter.