Adaptation

Juniperus communis L. has adapted to its environment of hills and dry, rocky soil that is somewhat sterile in a couple of ways. One for example is the adaptation of thick bark and a thick cuticle around its scale-like leaves. The bark helps to prevent water desiccation; the thickness is made by the existence of the secondary phloem and the cork. Where many plants shed the layers, Juniper keeps a few extra ones on hand.

The leaves, which are awl-shaped, also help to keep the water within them instead of diffusing through a thinner membrane. The cuticle, or waxy coating on the outside of the leaves also helps to prevent this problem.

Another adaptation is the display of positive phototropism and negative geotropism, which allows the Juniper to reach towards the sun to receive the greatest amount of light energy possible.

"Time for a snack", says the juniper when its hungry.

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