Western Juniper
Juniperus occidentalis
Taxonomy
- Division:
- Coniferophyta | - Conifers
- Family:
- Cupressaceae
- Genus:
- Juniperus
- Species:
- Juniperus occidentalis
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Perennial
- Growth Habit:
- Tree
- Height:
- More than 40 ft
- Light Requirements:
- Full Sun
- Bloom Months:
- apr, may
- Bloom Colors:
- Yellow
Native Range
United States: California, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Washington
Keystone Species Ranking
- Caterpillar Keystone:
- ★★☆☆☆ Based on number of butterfly and moth species using this genus as host plant (Source: National Wildlife Federation)
Host Plant for Caterpillars
Abagrotis glenni, Lithophane longior, Semiothisa sp., Sequoia sphinx (Sphinx sequoiae), 🛑Barry's hairstreak (Mitoura barryi), Siva Hairstreak (Mitoura siva)
Soil Requirements
- Soil Type:
- rocky, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
- pH:
- 6.0 - 8.0 (slightly acidic to slightly alkaline)
- Drainage:
- excellent drainage required
- Moisture:
- dry to moderate
- Notes:
- Commonly found in mountainous regions with sparse vegetation.
Germination Information
Pre-treatment: Seeds are placed in cold moist stratification for 98 to 148 days.
Establishment: J. occidentalis is found in Washington, Idaho, Nevada and California.
Source: npn.rngr.net