Project Description
Southern Redcedar
Juniperus silicicola
Range/Geographical Distribution: Along the coast from North Carolina to Texas.
Habitat: Usually within 30 miles of saltwater, in maritime forests.
Description: A medium-sized evergreen tree with red, peeling bark and flat, fine, green needles.
Size: Can reach 45 feet in height.
Breeding: Dioecious: male cones shed pollen January to February, female cones mature October to November. Produces grey/blue berry-like fruits that are covered in a wax-like coating.
Predators/Ecological Importance: Many animals eat the fruit and foliage as well as use this tree for protective and nesting cover.
Conservation Status: No legal status.
Interesting Facts: The wood from cedar trees is used for products such as pencils and furniture while the berries are used to flavor food and drink. The redcedar is sometimes used as a Christmas tree and the fruits are also called juniper berries.
On the Coast: Southern redcedar can be found along Georgia’s coast growing near the water within maritime forests.