Garden herbs

Herb: Juniper (Juniperus Communis)

Background: Traditionally used to give gin its taste. Also Juniper branches were burnt for fumigation purposes.

Garden herb type: Evergreen shrub.

Growing this herb: Sow juniper seeds in a cold frame in spring and plant out in permanent position one year later. It can be propagated by stem cuttings in early autumn. Bring the cuttings on in sandy soil under glass. Male and female plants are needed for berries to be produced.

Soil condition and garden position: Juniper likes good garden soil and a well drained position.

Appearance: Juniper had grey/green leaves and can grow up to 12 feet in height. The leaves are thin and pointed and the flowers are small and yellow. The green berries take 2 years to mature, eventually turning blue/black in colour. When ready gather the berries in autumn and dry for use.

Uses: The berries are usually dried for use. They can be added to pork and venison and they can be used as a substitute for a bay leaf (4 berries = 1 bay leaf). The berries can be added to stuffing for rich meat like goose or duck and added to cabbage water and the water in which a ham is being boiled. Tea made from the berries is supposed to have a diuretic quality (not to be used by those with any kidney trouble) and it is good for bronchial complaints and indigestion.

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