Herbs · Handle with care

Juniper

Juniperus communis · also called Common juniper · planet: Sun

A prickly evergreen shrub with blue-purple, cone-like berries that flavor gin and game dishes.

In the garden

Full sun and poor, dry, even stony soil; very hardy and slow growing. Male and female plants are separate and only females bear berries.

In the kitchen

A few crushed ripe berries flavor game, sauerkraut and roast pork. Use sparingly; they are strong.

Take care

• Use only ripe berries of common juniper (Juniperus communis). Some junipers, such as savin, are toxic.
• Avoid berries in pregnancy and with kidney disease.
• Eat only small amounts as a flavoring. Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using it in any other way.

Folklore and garden information only, not medical advice. Do not eat or use any plant unless you are certain what it is and that it is safe for you. Ask a doctor or pharmacist first, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, on medicine, or choosing for children or pets.