Syrian Juniper

Juniperus drupacea

Physical Characteristics

Juniperus drupacea is an evergreen Tree growing to 15 m (49ft) by 2 m (6ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in leaf all year, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Wind. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very acid and very alkaline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

S. Europe, W. Asia, N. Africa.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked. Large and sweet[2, 61, 105].The cones are about 20 - 25mm in diameter and take 2 years to mature[200].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known