Juniperus communis
Plant Details
General Information
Plant Properties
Growth conditions
Permeable, Moist
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
Acid Neutral Basic
Half shade, Sun
Usage properties
Fruit, Leaves, Condiment, Coffee, Tea
Fibers, Incense, Repellent, Resin, Ground cover
Description
Fruit - raw or cooked. It is usually harvested in the fall, fully ripe and then dried. The fruit has soft, mealy, and sweet, resinous flesh. It is often used as a flavoring in dishes such as sauerkraut, fillings, vegetable pâtés, etc., and is an essential ingredient in gin. It is said that the aromatic fruit can be a substitute for pepper. Sometimes essential oil is distilled from the fruits as an aroma. The average yield is about 1%. The cones are about 4-8 mm in diameter and take 2-3 years to mature. It is important to be cautious when using the fruit due to toxicity, see the comments above. The roasted seed can serve as a substitute for coffee. Tea can be made by boiling the leaves and stems. A tea made from the berries has a spicy gin-like flavor.
Harvest Data
Guilds
Guild Information
Click on a plant in the diagram for more information.
Guild Details
| Guild | Description |
|---|---|
|
Hovenia dulcis Japanese Raisin Tree |
Offers shade and has a positive effect on soil moisture and fertility. |
|
Salix alba Willow |
Helps to keep soil moisture levels stable and provides habitat for beneficial insects. |
|
Fagus sylvatica Beech |
Enhances biodiversity by attracting various pollinators and offers nutritional benefits to the soil. |
|
Fraxinus Excelsior Ash, European ash, Common Ash |
Provides ground cover which suppresses weed growth and retains soil moisture. |
|
Eriobotrya japonica Loquat |
Provides a dense canopy that helps in protecting the Juniperus from harsh sun and wind. |