Juniperus occidentalis - Western juniper

Western Juniper
Juniperus occidentalis
Family: CUPRESSACEAE

This native conifer is abundant locally, growing well in the dry, rocky and sandy soils of the high desert with an extensively spreading root system. Its range extends from eastern Washington to southern California. This species has a slow to moderate growth rate and is long-lived: the oldest dated tree is over 1600 years. It is an excellent seed producer providing food for birds, mammals and humans.