Family: Cupressaceae
Author: (Seub.) Antoine
Bibliography: Cupress.-Gatt.: 16 (1857)
Year: 1857
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Juniperus
Vegetable: False
Observations: Azores, Portugal
Description
The Azores juniper, known scientifically as Juniperus brevifolia, is a unique conifer species indigenous to the Azores archipelago in Portugal. This fascinating tree is a member of the Cupressaceae family, a group that includes many well-known conifers. First described in the mid-19th century, the Azores juniper has since become an important botanical subject due to its restricted geographic range and distinctive characteristics.
The Azores juniper thrives in the mild, humid climate of the Azores, a cluster of volcanic islands in the North Atlantic Ocean. The tree displays a penchant for surviving in challenging environments, often found on steep hillsides and rugged terrains. This adaptability contributes to its rugged yet graceful appearance, with its dense, evergreen foliage providing a striking contrast against the island’s scenic landscapes.
Juniperus brevifolia is typically characterized by its short, scale-like leaves that are bright green and aromatic. The tree produces small, berry-like cones that begin green and mature to a dusky purple-black, providing a food source for local wildlife and adding to the botanical diversity of the region.
Given its limited natural habitat, the Azores juniper plays a pivotal role in the local ecosystem. It acts as a stabilizing force in the soil, helping to prevent erosion in the often harsh and windy climates of the islands. Additionally, it provides a crucial habitat for various endemic species, thus maintaining the biodiversity of the Azores.
Conservation efforts are vital for the Azores juniper, as its populations have been impacted by human activities and invasive species. Protecting this species is not only important for ecological reasons but also for preserving the natural heritage of the Azores.
In summary, the Azores juniper (Juniperus brevifolia) is a remarkable species whose presence is specific to the Azores. Its resilience in adverse conditions, contribution to the local habitat, and unique botanical characteristics make it a noteworthy subject of study and conservation within the Cupressaceae family.
Common Names
Eng: azores juniper
Por: cedro
Rus: можжевельник коротколистный (mozhzhevel’nik korotkolistnyj)
Zho: 短叶桧 (duan ye gui)
En: Azores Juniper
Ar: عرعر قصير الأوراق
Az: Azor ardıcı
Zh: 短叶桧 (duan ye gui)
Fi: Azorienkataja
De: Kurzblättriger Wacholder
Is: Azoreyja-einir
No: Azorisk einer
Fa: ارس آزور
Pt: Cedro
Ru: Можжевельник азорский, Можжевельник коротколистный (mozhzhevel’nik korotkolistnyj)
: Azores juniper
Synonyms
- Juniperus rufescens var. brevifolia ((Seub.) Endl.)
- Juniperus oxycedrus var. brevifolia (Seub.)
Distribution
- Azores (native)
- Portugal (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Aug 7, 2019 by Jules Millet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 8, 2019 by Jules Millet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 21, 2020 by Santos Célio (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 21, 2020 by Santos Célio (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 17, 2019 by mauny Antoine (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Mar 31, 2021 by Pereira Jorge (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 17, 2019 by mauny Antoine (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken May 12, 2022 by Krisilda Lleshaj (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Aug 7, 2019 by Jules Millet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 7, 2019 by Jules Millet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 8, 2019 by Jules Millet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 6, 2020 by ady vasile (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Aug 21, 2020 by Santos Célio (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2684507)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:262158-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Juniperus brevifolia (Seub.) Antoine)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Tree