Juniperus communis (Common Juniper)

Juniperus communis (Common Juniper) is a species of evergreen shrub or small tree in the Cupressaceae family. It is widely distributed throughout the northern hemisphere, including Europe, North America, and Asia, and is commonly found in rocky, dry habitats such as heathlands, moors, and high-altitude mountains. 

Common Juniper typically grows to a height of 2-4 meters and has a variable growth habit, ranging from a low-spreading shrub to a tall, narrow tree. Its leaves are small, scale-like, and arranged in opposite pairs along the branches. The foliage is generally bluish-green in color, with a silvery sheen, and gives off a distinct aromatic scent when crushed. 

The Common Juniper is dioecious, meaning that male and female flowers are produced on separate plants. The male flowers are small and yellowish-brown, and produce pollen, while the female flowers are larger and greenish-blue, and give rise to berry-like cones that take 1-2 years to mature. The cones are initially green, but turn bluish-black when ripe and are used to make gin and other alcoholic beverages, as well as for flavoring food.