Eastern red cedar
Juniperus virginiana L.
Cupressaceae (Cypress family)
Description
An evergreen tree, eastern red cedar is a member of the Cypress family. It is an aggressive invader that spreads mainly by seed.
Although variable, its shape tends to be like a Christmas tree. Eastern red cedar generally reaches 20 to 30 feet tall. Its bark is light reddish brown and separates into long strips.
The small, purplish flowers are deciduous, occurring from March to May. The fruits ripen from September to December. The berry-like fruits are pale blue, smooth and sweet to the taste.
The forage value of eastern red cedar is poor for livestock and fair for wildlife.
Habitat
Eastern red cedar grows in all types of soils, from hilltops to swamps.
Images
Plant Characteristics
Seed Type: Fruit/Berry
Duration: Perennial
Stem Texture: Hairless/Smooth
Growth Habit: Shrub (Woody)
Season: Evergreen
Distribution
: 01 - Pineywoods, 02 - Gulf Prairies and Marshes, 03 - Post Oak Savannah, 04 - Blackland Prairies, 07 - Edwards Plateau
Distributions
Distribution refers to the ecological region in Texas that a plant has been found. You can also view a clickable map.
Book: Brush and Weeds of Texas Rangelands (B-6208)
Collection: Brush and Weeds
