The Cypress of Magicians
Scientific name:
Juniperus sabina L.
Common name:
Savin Juniper
Family:
Cupressaceae
Biological form:
Fanerofita cespugliosa/Fanerofita strisciante
Characteristics
Habit: Low evergreen shrub with prostrate habit. Leaves scale-like or needle-like when young. Fruits: Small blue-black cones. Flowering: March–June.
Distribution and habitat
Chorological type: Circumboreal. Distribution in Italy: Alps and central-southern Apennines. Habitat: Rocky slopes, 1300–2000 m.
Etymology
Generic name (Juniperus): Linked to Juno. Specific name (sabina): Refers to Sabina region.
Uses and properties
Highly toxic plant historically used in folk medicine.
Curiosities
Known as “witches’ cypress” due to toxic properties.