One-Seed Juniper

Juniperus monosperma

Physical Characteristics

Juniperus monosperma is an evergreen Tree growing to 18 m (59ft 1in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in leaf all year, in flower in April, 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. It is noted for attracting wildlife. 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 alkaline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

South-western N. America - along the Rocky Mountains from Wyoming to Mexico.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Gum Fruit - raw or cooked. Soft, juicy and pulpy[81, 85, 105], but with a thin flesh[82]. It can be dried and ground into a powder and then be baked[82, 227], or can be used as a seasoning in stews etc[161, 257]. The fruits were only used when other foods were in short supply[257]. The cones are about 5 - 8mm in diameter and ripen in their first year[200]. Inner bark - raw or cooked[257]. It was chewed in times of food shortage for the little nourishment it supplied[257]. The gum is chewed as a delicacy[161, 257]. No further details are given.

Medicinal Uses

Antiphlogistic Birthing aid Diuretic Dysentery Febrifuge Laxative Odontalgic Pectoral Poultice Stomachic One-seed juniper was commonly employed medicinally by a number of native North American Indian tribes, who used it to treat a variety of complaints[257]. It is little, if at all, used in modern herbalism. The leaves are febrifuge, laxative and pectoral[216]. An infusion is used in the treatment of stomach complaints, constipation, coughs and colds[216]. An infusion was also used by pregnant women prior to childbirth in order to relax the muscles[257]. A poultice of the heated twigs can be bound over a bruise or sprain in order to reduce the swelling[257]. An infusion of the staminate cones has been used as a stomach tonic and in the treatment of dysentery[257]. The chewed bark has been applied externally to help heal spider bites[257]. It is also highly prized as a dressing on burns[257]. The fruits are strongly diuretic[257]. A gum from the plant has been used as a temporary filling in a decayed tooth[257].

Known Hazards

None known