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Juniper – edible wild plant – how to find, identify, prepare, and other uses for survival.

Juniper tree

Juniper tree (Juniperus species)

Juniper (Cedar) branches and berriesJunipers, sometimes called cedars, are trees or shrubs that vary in size and shape from columnar trees to low spreading shrubs with long trailing branches.

Juniper needle-like leavesMany junipers have two types of leaves on the tree.  The trees may have very small, hard, needle-like leaves or scale-like leaves that are densely crowded around the branches. Seedlings and the twigs of older trees have needle-like leaves while the leaves on mature plants are tiny, overlapping and scale-like.  Some trees though, may have all scale-like leaves with no needle-like leaves.  Each leaf is less than 1.2 centimeters (1/3 inch) long.

Juniper need-like leave (left) and scale-like leaves (right)The female seed cones are a berry like structure covered with fleshy, fruit-like scales.  The berries may be red-brown or orange but in most cases are blue.

All species have a distinct aroma resembling the well-known cedar. The berrylike cones are usually blue and covered with a whitish wax.

Where to find Juniper tree plants

Look for junipers in open, dry, sunny areas. Junipers are found throughout the world, so depending on your location, you may be able to find them nearby.

North America

In North America, Juniper trees are found in many different regions. Some of the best places to find Junipers include:

  • The Rocky Mountains
  • The Southwest United States, including Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas
  • The Sierra Nevada mountain range in California
  • The Great Basin region, which includes parts of Nevada, Utah, and Idaho

Europe

Juniper trees are also found throughout Europe, particularly in the Mediterranean region. Some good places to look for Juniper trees in Europe include:

  • The Mediterranean coast of France
  • The Alps mountain range in Switzerland
  • The Mediterranean islands of Corsica and Sardinia

Asia

Finally, Juniper trees can also be found in many parts of Asia. Some of the best places to look for Junipers in Asia include:

  • The Himalayan mountain range in India, Nepal, and Bhutan
  • The Altai Mountains in Russia
  • The Tianshan Mountains in China

Here are some of the conditions in which you can find juniper trees:

  1. Climate: Juniper trees are commonly found in arid and semi-arid regions. They can tolerate extreme temperatures ranging from -40°F to 100°F.
  2. Altitude: Juniper trees can grow at various elevations, from sea level to high altitudes of up to 10,000 feet.
  3. Soil: Juniper trees can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, rocky, and loamy soils. They are also tolerant of alkaline and acidic soils.
  4. Geography: Juniper trees are found in many parts of the world, including North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Juniper berries on treeEdible parts of the Juniper tree plant

The berries and twigs are edible but may be bitter and have a strong taste. Eat the berries raw or roast the seeds to use as a coffee substitute. Use dried and crushed berries as a seasoning for meat or as a spice (juniper berries are the primary flavoring in gin). Gather young twigs to make tea.

Note: Many plants may be called cedars but are not related to junipers and may be harmful. Always look for the berrylike structures, needle leaves, and resinous, fragrant sap to be sure the plant you have is a juniper.

Other uses for the Juniper tree plant

Native Americans use juniper berries as a female contraceptive.  Some cultures are used as a urinary tract disinfectant or as a herbal remedy for diabetes. Here are some other uses for the Juniper tree.

  • Woodwork: Juniper wood is highly valued for its durability and resistance to decay. It is used in making furniture, fence posts, and other outdoor structures. The wood is also used in carving and decorative arts.
  • Medicinal purposes: The juniper tree has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments. The berries of the tree are used to make tea, which is believed to have diuretic properties and help in treating urinary tract infections. The tree’s essential oils are also used in aromatherapy to relieve stress and improve sleep quality.
  • Culinary uses: The berries of the juniper tree are used to flavor gin, a popular alcoholic beverage. They are also used as a spice in cooking, especially in game meat dishes, and to add flavor to pickles.
  • Landscaping: Juniper trees are commonly used in landscaping due to their evergreen foliage and attractive shape. They can be planted as hedges, windbreaks, or as standalone trees in gardens and parks.

Juniper tree plants picture identification guide

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