Savine, Tam Juniper

Juniperus sabina

Physical Characteristics

Juniperus sabina is an evergreen Shrub growing to 4 m (13ft) by 4 m (13ft) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. 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. 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. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

C. and S. Europe to N. America.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Ground Cover; Hedge;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Abortifacient Diuretic Emetic Emmenagogue Irritant Parasiticide Warts The young shoots are abortifacient, diuretic, emetic, powerfully emmenagogue and irritant[4, 7]. The plant is rarely used internally but is useful as an ointment and dressing to blisters etc in order to promote discharge[4]. The powdered leaves are also used in the treatment of warts[1, 4, 7, 21]. The shoots are harvested in spring and dried for later use[4]. Use with great caution and never during pregnancy[4, 21], see notes above on toxicity.

Known Hazards

The whole plant is poisonous and can produce abortions[4].