Common Juniper Juniperus communis 'Green Carpet'

Names

• Family

  Cupressaceae.

• Synonyms

  Common Juniper, Green Carpet Juniper.

• Common names

  Juniperus communis 'Green Carpet'.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Common Juniper is generally not considered highly toxic to humans, but it can cause issues if ingested. Eating parts of this plant, particularly consuming the berries in large quantities, can lead to upset stomach, diarrhea, kidney damage, and other digestive issues due to its volatile oil content and potent compounds like thujone. Also, pregnant women should avoid consuming Common Juniper as it can stimulate the uterus and potentially cause miscarriages. Handling the plant might also lead to skin irritation in some individuals.

• To pets

  Common Juniper may also pose a risk to pets if ingested. Similar to humans, when pets consume parts of the plant, they might suffer from gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, diarrhea, or more serious issues like kidney or liver damage. As pet metabolism differs from humans, even a small amount might result in toxicity. If you suspect your pet has ingested Common Juniper, it is important to consult a veterinarian immediately.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Evergreen

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Height

  6 inches (15 cm)

• Spread

  6 feet (1.8 meters)

• Plant type

  Shrub

• Hardiness zones

  3

• Native area

  Europe

General Benefits

• Drought Tolerance: Juniperus communis 'Green Carpet' can survive with minimal water, once established, making it suitable for dry climates.
• Low Maintenance: It requires little maintenance beyond occasional trimming, thus saving time and effort for gardeners.
• Ground Cover: Its dense mat-like growth habit makes it an effective ground cover that inhibits weeds and stabilizes soil.
• Erosion Control: The plant's root system helps to prevent soil erosion, particularly on slopes and banks.
• Attracts Wildlife: Offers habitat and protection for wildlife such as birds and small mammals.
• Winter Interest: Provides greenery and maintains its color even in winter months, offering year-round visual interest.
• Adaptability: It's adaptable to a range of soil types, provided they are well-drained.
• Decorative Berries: Produces decorative berries that add aesthetic value to the landscape.
• Salt Tolerance: Shows resilience to salt, making it suitable for planting in coastal areas or near roads that are salted in winter.

Medical Properties

• Antiseptic: Juniper berries have been used for their antiseptic properties to help treat urinary tract infections and cleanse the urinary system.
• Anti-inflammatory: The plant has been associated with reducing inflammation, especially in cases of arthritis and rheumatism.
• Antispasmodic: Juniper has been used to relieve muscle spasms.
• Diuretic: It is traditionally used as a diuretic, helping to remove excess water from the body and possibly aiding in conditions like edema.
• Carminative: Juniper may help to relieve gas and bloating by expelling gas from the stomach and intestines.
• Digestive stimulant: The berries have been used to stimulate the digestive system, potentially aiding in digestion and relieving indigestion.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Flavoring agent: Juniper berries from the Juniper plant are traditionally used to impart a distinct, sharp flavor to gin and various culinary dishes.
• Natural dye: The berries and foliage can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics and yarns, producing colors from green to yellow hues.
• Insect repellent: Juniper has been burned or used in oil form as a natural insect repellent, warding off mosquitoes and other pests.
• Closet freshener: Dried juniper branches can be placed in closets to impart their crisp fragrance and to help repel moths.
• Landscape design: 'Green Carpet' serves as a valuable ground cover with its dense mat-forming growth habit, providing aesthetic value in garden designs.
• Wildlife habitat: Juniper provides shelter and nesting sites for birds, as well as food in the form of its berries for various wildlife species.
• Fragrance production: The oil extracted from juniper berries is used in making perfumes and scented candles for its woodsy, pine-like scent.
• Bonsai cultivation: Some juniper varieties are popular choices for creating bonsai trees due to their adaptability and attractive growth patterns.
• Winter interest: In snowy landscapes, the evergreen nature of Juniper maintains a touch of green, adding visual interest during the colder months.
• Erosion control: The dense root system of ground cover junipers like 'Green Carpet' helps to prevent soil erosion on slopes and hillsides.

Feng Shui

Juniper is traditionally believed to have protective qualities, so placing a Juniper plant in the front of a house or by the entrance can create a barrier against negative energy. It can also cleanse the space of negativity and attract positive energy when placed in the east or southeast area of a garden or room.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Juniper plant is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Protection: Juniper has been used for its protective properties throughout history. It is believed to ward off evil spirits and negative energies.
• Cleansing: With its purifying scent, juniper is often associated with cleansing rituals and the purification of spaces and individuals.
• Healing: In various traditions, juniper is thought to have healing properties and is used in medicinal preparations to promote health and well-being.
• Longevity: The juniper tree is known for its long life; thus, it symbolizes longevity and the ability to withstand the test of time.