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Trailing Juniper, Juniperus horizontalis Moench

Prostrate and mat-forming evergreen shrub with long-trailing stems. Older branches have scaly bark.

Leaves: Opposite, forming four rows on the stem, scale-like and overlapping, sharp-pointed.

Flowers: At the ends of the short branches and similar to those of Common Juniper. Male and female flowers are on separate plants. Blooms from mid-May to June.

Fruit: Bluish, berry-like cones, 6-0 mm in diameter, 3-5 seeds, on short, recurved stalks, Mature in 2-3 years.

Habitat: Rocky headlands, peat lands, in rocky, open woods throughout Newfoundland. No records of its occurrence in Labrador.

Juniper fruit are available year-round and can be used as a treat or for seasoning.

Source: Native Trees and Shrubs
of Newfoundland and Labrador
By A. Glen Ryan
Used with permission from:
Parks and Natural Areas Division
Department of Environment and Conservation
Government of Newfoundland and Labrador 1995