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Description
Juniperus Oxycedrus Subsp. Macrocarpa, commonly known as the Prickly Juniper, is a small evergreen tree or shrub that belongs to the Cupressaceae family. This plant is native to the western Mediterranean region and grows well in dry and rocky areas, particularly on slopes and hilltops. The Prickly Juniper has been used for various purposes, such as for its wood, oil, and as a medicinal plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Cupressaceae |
| Genus | Juniperus |
Appearance
The Prickly Juniper is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to 5 meters in height. It has a dense and bushy habit, with a broad and conical shape. The leaves are scale-like, in opposite pairs, and have a bluish-green color. The bark is reddish-brown and scaly, and the wood is hard and durable. The cones are small, round, and dark blue, and they contain 3 to 6 seeds.
Care Guide
The Prickly Juniper is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: The Prickly Juniper is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter.- Fertilization: Fertilize once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.- Soil: The Prickly Juniper prefers well-draining and poor soil, such as rocky or sandy soil.- Sunlight: The Prickly Juniper prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: The Prickly Juniper can grow in hardiness zones 7 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Prickly Juniper is resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and root rot if it is overwatered. To prevent these problems, avoid overwatering and provide good drainage.
Habitat
The Prickly Juniper is native to the western Mediterranean region, including Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, and North Africa. It grows well in dry and rocky areas, particularly on slopes and hilltops.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Prickly Juniper be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, the Prickly Juniper has been used for various medicinal purposes, such as for its antiseptic, diuretic, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Q: Does the Prickly Juniper attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the Prickly Juniper provides food and shelter for various wildlife, such as birds and small mammals.
Q: Can the Prickly Juniper be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Prickly Juniper can be grown in containers, but it prefers to grow in the ground.
Q: How often should the Prickly Juniper be pruned?
A: The Prickly Juniper does not require frequent pruning. Prune lightly in the spring to shape the plant, and remove any dead or diseased branches.
Related Plants
– Juniperus communis- Juniperus horizontalis- Juniperus sabina- Juniperus scopulorum
References
– “Juniperus oxycedrus subsp. macrocarpa.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed 1 September 2021. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:60404138-2- “Prickly Juniper.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 1 September 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/11653/i-juniperus-oxycedrus-i-subsp-i-macrocarpa-i/details
