A common small tree of sand dunes and brackish marshes of the outer Coastal Plain. Very similar to the familiar Eastern Redcedar (J. v. var. virginiana), differing in habitat and a few subtle details. The shape is the easiest thing to spot -- Southern Redcedar is more rounded and sprawling, unlike the typical columnar form of Eastern Redcedar.
Dare Co., NC 11/11/06.
The fleshy cones on Southern Redcedar are smaller than those of Eastern Redcedar (3-4 mm long vs. 4-7 mm long), the terminal twigs are slightly narrower, and the scale leaves are slightly shorter, but these difference are all very subtle.
Dare Co., NC 11/2/05.
The fleshy cones are green in the spring, turning bluish with maturity, and have a white coating. Scale-like leaves are found on slow-growing shoots.
There is debate about whether Southern Redcedar is better recognized as a variety of Eastern Redcedar or as a full species, Juniperus silicicola (Small) Bailey
Pea Island NWR, Dare Co., NC 11/2/05.
