Eastern Red-cedar

General

Scientific Name: Juniperus virginiana
Family: Cupressaceae (Cyprus)
Hardiness: Zone 2
Leaves: Evergreen
Plant Type: Tree

Growth

Rate: Slow
Mature Height: >45’
Longevity: Long
Power Line: No

Ornamental

Flowers: Inconspicuous
Fruit: Blue berry-like cones
Fall Color: n/a

A small tree with a short trunk and irregular, pyramidal crown native to the eastern United States. Dwarf or compact forms of this juniper are used as ornamentals. The largest tree in North Dakota is 51 feet tall with a canopy spread of 30 feet.

Light: Full sun, tolerates shade only in youth.
Water: Drought tolerant but prefers moist soils.
Soil: Moist soils preferred but will tolerate alkaline and saline conditions.

Eastern red-cedar has demonstrated invasive tendencies in some states as it is spread by birds eating the fruit. 

A variety of cultivars are available in different colors, sizes and forms. 

‘Canaertii’ - Dense, with pyramidal shape, and tufty, green colored foliage.

‘Taylor’- A cultivar from Nebraska, very narrow erect growth habit.

Credits: Tree Selector Website, North Dakota Tree Handbook