Eastern Red Cedar
Juniperus virginiana · Cupressaceae (Cypresses and Junipers family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Specialized (scale-like and needle-like leaves, evergreen)
Shape
Scale-like and tightly appressed on older branches, with some juvenile needle-like leaves
Margin
Entire (smooth edges on scale leaves)
Arrangement
Opposite pairs or whorls of three, tightly overlapping along the stem
Venation
Parallel or obscure due to the tiny, fused scale-like structure
Key Features
Distinguished by its aromatic scent when crushed, scale-like overlapping leaves on rounded (not flattened) twigs, and reddish fibrous bark
Description
Eastern Red Cedar is a hardy, aromatic evergreen conifer featuring dense, scale-like foliage on branching sprays. It often appears as a conical or columnar tree with reddish-brown, shredding bark. While technically a juniper rather than a true cedar, it produces small, fleshy, bluish-white berry-like cones that are highly prized by wildlife.
Habitat
Found in old fields, fence rows, glades, rocky outcrops, and disturbed dry soils; highly adaptable to various moisture and pH levels
Native Range
Native to eastern North America, from southern Canada down to the Gulf of Mexico, and east of the Great Plains