Names and distribution: Juniper(Juniperus communis L. ) is a shrub and tree species widespread in central and northern Europe. The light-loving juniper thrives on dry, often nutrient-poor sandy soils. Heaths and open pastures are typical juniper habitats. The species is now protected in Germany. As a result, there is hardly any commercial use. Available quantities come from north-eastern Europe.
Wood appearance: The heartwood is reddish-brown in color, sometimes shimmering purple, the sapwood is light yellowish and clearly defined. The heartwood darkens under the influence of light. In contrast to the North American origins, it is fine-grained; early and late wood are clearly separated from each other. Pores are fine, medullary rays are not recognizable, resin galls are missing. Straight grain, few knot-free areas, often simple structure; grained areas occur.
Properties: The bulk density at 12% moisture content is 0.55 tons/m³, which is comparatively heavy for a softwood. No reliable information is available on swelling and shrinkage behavior. Data varies from low shrinkage to moderate shrinkage. After drying, the wood is generally said to have a high dimensional stability, comparable to that of Juniperus procera, the East African juniper. Juniper can be worked easily and cleanly with all tools, and is easy to glue, varnish and oil. The wood is classified in durability class 2. Juniper wood has a long-lasting, pleasant camphor or sandal-like scent.
Uses: Arts and crafts, woodturning and carving, knife handles, pipe bowls, components of wind instruments, combs, walking sticks, toothpicks (!), essential oils(Oleum Juniperi e Ligno), fragrances (“fake incense”), smoked wood for fish and meat (“juniper ham”), medicinal plant (disinfectant effect of the smoke!??)
| Sources: |
Gottwald, H. (1970) : Wood identification of the most important commercial woods Grosser,D. (2006): The wood of the juniper |
