Flaigg, Norman G.
Juniperus monosperma (Engelm.) Sarg.
Oneseed juniper, One-seed juniper, Cherrystone juniper
Cupressaceae (Cypress Family)
One-seed juniper is a large
shrub or small
tree, 6-20 ft., with a gnarled, multi-trunked appearance in the wild. Larger branches usually arise from below ground level.
Bark is thin, scaly and ashy. Fragrant foliage is scale-like on mature twigs; needle-like on juvenile shoots and seedlings. Bluish-black to copper-colored fruits occur on the female plants.
This abundant juniper is one of the most common small trees in New Mexico. The wood is important for fenceposts and fuel, and Indians used to make mats and cloth from the
fibrous bark. Birds and mammals consume the juicy berries, and goats browse the foliage.
Image Gallery:
5 photo(s) available
Plant Characteristics
Duration: Perennial Habit: Shrub Leaf: Dark Green
Fruit: Size Class: 12-36 ft.
Bloom Information
Bloom Color: Orange
Bloom Time: Mar , Apr
Distribution
USA: AZ , CO , NM , OK , TX
Native Distribution: W. TX, w. to s.e. CO & AZ; also mts. of n. Mex.
Native Habitat: Steep slopes; rocky ledges; arroyos; dry plains & hills
USDA Native Status: L48(N) Growing Conditions
Water Use: Low
Light Requirement: Part Shade
CaCO3 Tolerance: High
Soil Description: Gravelly or sandy, dry soils
Conditions Comments: A cold-, wind-, and drought-tolerant juniper. Provides shelter for wildlife and less-tolerant plants. Invades disturbed sites. Susceptible to mistletoe (prune it out).
Last Update: 2009-04-24
