Scientific name: Juniperus communis

Origin: Native to the UK

Common juniper is an evergreen conifer. The most famous use of juniper berries is in the flavouring of gin. Mature trees can reach a height of 10m and live for up to 200 years. Juniper has been declining throughout the UK in range and abundance. It is one of only three conifer species that are native to the UK, along with yew and Scots pine

Needles have a single pale band on the upper surface and are grey-green beneath. They are found in threes around the ridged twigs. The female cones look like blueberries.

Common juniper provides dense cover for nesting birds, such as the goldcrest and firecrest. A number of birds eat the fruit, including the fieldfare, song thrush and mistle thrush.

In some areas, juniper is considered to be a deterrent against the Devil and witches. It was hung over doorways on the eve of May Day and burnt on Halloween to ward off evil spirits. It was said that you would prosper if you dreamed of gathering juniper berries in winter, and the berries themselves signified honour or the birth of a boy.