Description
Juniperus communis. 3.7L coir pot.
The cones, often called berries, can take up to three years to ripen, and they’re a key ingredient in making the spirit gin.
Quite often, a male and female plant are required to make berries, but my plants are grown from a self pollinating plant, so you only need one plant.
The plant has a long history of medicinal use, with the berries and seeds having antiseptic, carminative and diaphoretic properties, among others. The plant is believed to help eliminate toxins from the body.
The leaves, berries and roots can be used in tea.
The seeds are used for flavouring, and when roasted, can be used as a coffee substitute.
Traditionally, the plant was believed to purify the air, and eliminate infections. Leaves were used to fumigate rooms, as an insect repellant, and as incense, among other things.
A popular essential oil can be extracted from the plant.
This slow growing, upright, evergreen shrub / tree enjoys a full sun to part shade position, and can handle a variety of free draining soil types.
Growing to about 4.5m high by 1.5m wide, it’s a lovely addition to the garden.
