Eastern Redcedar

Juniperus virginiana

Weed Description
A perennial tree that commonly occurs along fencerows and in unmaintained pastures. Eastern redcedars can easily measure 30-40 feet in height and female eastern redcedars contain many blue berries that attract birds.

Leaves
Eastern redcedar leaves are scale or awl-like in appearance and margins are serrated or toothed. Leaves are green all year, prickly to the touch, and measure 1/16" in width.

Flowers
Eastern redcedars has flowers that occur on separate plants; female flowers are green while male flowers are yellowish-brown in color.

Roots
Deep penetrating taproot with fibrous roots extending outward.

Identifying Characteristics
Small linear leaves measuring 1/16" wide with serrated or toothed edges. Mature Eastern redcedars are capable of growing 30-40 feet in height and have a distinct odor when leaves are rubbed together. These plants commonly occur along fencerows where birds rest and defecate previously consumed seeds.

Office of Programs

University of Missouri

Eastern Redcedar

Juniperus virginiana