The common juniper is native to Europe, Asia and North America. It's an evergreen shrub but can grown into a small tree with prickly and sharp needles. Not to be confused with Gorse (Ulex) which has yellow flowers.

Juniper is mainly found in pinewoods and mountain areas and grows in large quantities grouped together.

Uses

• Edible
  • It's mature cones can be used for flavoring. The cones can take up to two years to fully mature. Mature cones are purple in colour. Younger cones are green.
• Medicinal
  • Can be used to treat cystitis
  • It's used in many traditional remedies
  • Can be used to treat colds and coughs
• Utilities
  • Fibrous bark makes good cordage
  • Great for tinder bundles
  • Makes good fine kindling
  • A great dry wood for friction fire for hearths and spindles