About
Juniperus oxycedrus, the brown-berried juniper or prickly juniper, is a shrub or small tree mainly found in Mediterranean habitats, with an oval habit, prickly, aromatic, needle-like, grey-green foliage, peeling, reddish-brown bark and green to orange-brown, berry-like fruits. An ornamental Mediterranean juniper for a sunny, well-drained, sheltered garden. The oil from the wood is used in cosmetics and incense.
About the genus
Juniperus, the junipers, are evergreen shrubs and trees ranging from prostrate ground-covers to tall, columnar or broadly spreading trees. They have aromatic foliage in juvenile awl-shaped or adult scale-like forms and produce small, fleshy, berry-like cones. Among the most garden-worthy and widely adaptable of all conifers.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeConifers, Shrubs
HabitBushy, Spreading branched
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Coastal, Gravel garden
Native toW. & WC. Medit.
FragranceFoliage
ToxicityHarmful if eaten/skin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any well-drained soil. Useful in hot sunny sites. Good ground cover
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, juniper scale and caterpillars
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to phytophthora, canker and honey fungus. See also Conifers: brown patches