Juniper branch
Juniper berry trees, also known simply as junipers, are small trees known for producing blue berries, which are often found lying on the ground near the trunk of the tree. Junipers belong to a larger family of coniferous trees that are extremely well-known throughout the world and consist of around 60 different species.
Size and Description
Junipers have one of the widest size ranges of any tree. Some species are no larger than bushes, while others grow around 40 feet tall. They either have needle-like or scaly, twig-shaped leaves as opposed to the flat leaves of many other trees. Regardless, the leaves are always hard and sharp, making them difficult to handle with bare hands.
Range
Junipers can be found all throughout the Northern Hemisphere, from North America, to Europe, to the tip of the Arctic. Their numbers dwindle at around 30 degrees north latitude, where the climate becomes more tropical. According to the USDA, it grows best in hardiness zones 3 to 8.
Berries
Though the juniper is known for its dark blue berries, they're not actually berries at all, but are actually reproductive seed cones that develop into a hard, woody coating in other trees. They turn from green to black or purple over an 18-month period as they mature. They are released in March and April.
Uses
Juniper berries are bitter to eat raw but are used as a flavoring in many cuisines or as a spice. Gin is flavored primarily through the use of juniper berry extract. Juniper is also used in perfumes and aromatherapy candles.
Tags: blue berries, other trees