BOTANICAL AND ECOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS
SPECIES: Juniperus erythrocarpa | Redberry Juniper 



GENERAL BOTANICAL CHARACTERISTICS : 
Redberry juniper is a native, evergreen, small tree or large shrub.
Mature height usually ranges from 12 to 15 feet (3.6-4.5 m), with
spreading and ascending branches forming an open, irregular crown.  The
ovulate cones contain one seed [15].  The bark is shreddy, but but is
formed close to the trunk.  Redberry juniper tends to have a central
erect stem with lower branches originating near the ground level [5].


RAUNKIAER LIFE FORM : 
   Phanerophyte


REGENERATION PROCESSES : 
Redberry juniper reproduces by seed.  Further information specific to
reproduction in redberry juniper is not available.  Pinchot juniper is
one of the few juniper species known to sprout after top-kill, and it is
closely related to redberry juniper.  In most junipers germination may
be delayed up to 2 years through embryo dormancy, seedcoat
impermeability, or chemical inhibitors.  Juniper seedling establishment
is enhanced by light shade, which helps maintain adequate moisture [7].


SITE CHARACTERISTICS : 
In Trans-Pecos Texas junipers are most common on rocky or poor soils
[14].  Redberry juniper occurs most often on dry, well-drained soils in
full sun [19].  It occurs at elevations of 4,000 feet (1,200 m) to 6,500
feet (2,000 m) through its range [1,16].


SUCCESSIONAL STATUS : 
Facultative Seral Species

Redberry juniper is intolerant of shade [7].  Junipers often invade
grasslands and are gradually replaced by pinyons [7].


SEASONAL DEVELOPMENT : 
Redberry juniper is pollinated in late fall, and the ovulate cones
mature in late spring [5].  Most juniper seeds germinate in spring [7].

Related categories for Species: Juniperus erythrocarpa | Redberry Juniper