Description
Western juniper is common in the eastern portion of the Klamath-Siskiyou region in northern California in the Klamath and Scott River watersheds and the Yolla Bollys, but is uncommon in the Klamath-Siskiyou region in southwest Oregon. The Applegate River watershed is home to the westernmost population of Western juniper in Oregon. Western juniper is an iconic species that is emblematic of dry habitat in the American west. This aromatic species can live thousands of years old and can take on many different shapes, from windswept, shrubby or krummholz to tall, stately and slender up to 90′ tall, depending on the habitat it grows in. Generally found in full sun in areas with dry, well drained soil, Western juniper is deer resistant, drought tolerant, and it provides great habitat for birds. The berry-like cones of Western juniper are an important food for many bird species.
Western juniper (Juniperus occidentalis) seed packets contain approximately 40 seeds.
Seed Germination Instructions
2-3 months cold-moist stratification, followed by 2-3 months warm-moist stratification, and then another 3 months cold-moist stratification. May take two years to germinate.
