Family: Cupressaceae
Author: Hook.
Bibliography: Fl. Bor.-Amer. 2: 166 (1838)
Year: 1838
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Juniperus
Vegetable: Unknown
Observations: NW. U.S.A. to N. California
Description
The Western-cedar, scientifically known as Juniperus occidentalis, is a prominent species of conifer thriving in the northwestern regions of the United States, extending its reach to northern California. Classified within the Cupressaceae family, this resilient tree was comprehensively described in the botanical literature “Flora Boreali-Americana” by the author Hook. in 1838.
Western-cedar characterizes itself with its robust stature and distinctive foliage. The trees typically exhibit a rugged bark and dense, rounded crown, manifesting the classic essence of juniper species. The foliage is composed of awl-shaped needles or scale-like leaves, with coloration that ranges from a vivid green to a bluish-grey hue, adapting seamlessly to various environmental conditions.
This species is well-adapted to the varied climates of its native regions, spanning from the semi-arid zones to mountainous terrains. Its adeptness at thriving in rocky, nutrient-poor soils highlights its resilience and ecological significance. Not only does Juniperus occidentalis contribute to the biodiversity of these areas, but it also plays a crucial role in erosion control and providing habitat for wildlife.
Botanically significant, the Western-cedar has been a subject of various studies due to its longevity and resistance to harsh weather conditions. Its wood, appreciated for its durability and aromatic scent, has been utilized historically by indigenous people for construction, tools, and ceremonial purposes.
In summary, Juniperus occidentalis, or Western-cedar, is a venerable species endemic to the northwestern United States and parts of northern California. Its enduring presence and adaptability make it a cornerstone of its native ecosystems, and its historical and botanical relevance continues to be revered in scientific and cultural contexts alike.
Common Names
Hun: nyugati gyantás boróka
Eng: pencil wood, sierra juniper, western juniper, western-cedar
Fra: genévrier occidental
Rus: можжевельник западный (mozhzhevel’nik zapadnyj)
Zho: 北美西部圆柏 (bei mei xi bu yuan bai)
En: Western-cedar, Sierra juniper, Western juniper, Pencil wood
Az: Qərb ardıcı
Be: Ядловец заходні
Bg: Западна хвойна
Zh: 北美西部圆柏 (bei mei xi bu yuan bai)
Fi: Lännenkataja
Fr: Genévrier occidental
De: Westamerikanischer Wacholder
He: ערער מערבי
Hu: Nyugati gyantás boróka
Fa: ارس غربی
Ru: Можжевельник западный, Можжевельник западный (mozhzhevel’nik zapadnyj)
Synonyms
- Juniperus pseudocupressus (Dieck)
- Juniperus occidentalis f. corbetii (R.P.Adams)
- Sabina occidentalis ((Hook.) Antoine)
- Cupressus bacciformis (Knight ex Gordon)
- Juniperus andina (Nutt.)
- Juniperus californica var. siskiyouensis (L.F.Hend.)
- Juniperus occidentalis f. robinsonii (O.V.Matthews)
Distribution
- California (native)
- Idaho (native)
- Nevada (native)
- Oregon (native)
- Washington (native)
Additional Images
Habit
Taken Oct 22, 2013 by EOL − chauncey (cc-by-nc)
Taken Oct 22, 2013 by EOL − chauncey (cc-by-nc)
Taken Oct 22, 2013 by EOL − chauncey (cc-by-nc)
Taken Oct 22, 2013 by EOL − chauncey (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 1, 2016 by EOL − Gerald and Buff Corsi (cc-by-nc-sa)
Leaf
Taken Nov 5, 2014 by EOL − chauncey (cc-by-nc)
Taken Oct 12, 2013 by EOL − chauncey (cc-by-nc)
Taken Aug 11, 2014 by EOL − chauncey (cc-by-nc)
Taken Nov 23, 2020 by Jessica Thorpe (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 20, 2020 by Ian Simmons (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Oct 29, 2013 by EOL − chauncey (cc-by-nc)
Taken Oct 29, 2013 by EOL − chauncey (cc-by-nc)
Taken Oct 22, 2013 by EOL − chauncey (cc-by-nc)
Taken Oct 22, 2013 by EOL − chauncey (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 7, 2016 by EOL − Gerald and Buff Corsi (cc-by-nc-sa)
Flower
Taken Oct 16, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Oct 17, 2015 by EOL − R.J. Adams (cc-by-nc)
Fruit
Taken Sep 24, 2013 by EOL − chauncey (cc-by-nc)
Taken Oct 16, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jun 28, 2006 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − This image is not copyrighted and may be freely used for any purpose. Please credit the artist, original publication if applicable, and the USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database. The following format is suggested and will be appreciated: Sheri Hagwood @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database If you cite PLA (public)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2684615)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30028138-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Juniperus occidentalis Hook.)