Rocky Mountain Red-cedar
Juniperus scopulorum
Last reviewed: June 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Rocky Mountain Red-cedar as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
240"–480" H × 120"–240" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
AZ, CO, ID, MT and 9 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Rocky Mountain red-cedar is a slow-growing evergreen tree that develops a narrow, columnar shape. This drought-tolerant conifer produces small blue berries and maintains its green foliage year-round, making it an excellent windbreak or specimen tree.
In an HOA neighborhood
Rocky Mountain Red-cedar is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The berries provide important winter food for birds including cedar waxwings, robins, and juncos. Dense branching offers excellent nesting sites and winter shelter for various bird species.
Common questions
- How much sun does Rocky Mountain Red-cedar need?
- Rocky Mountain Red-cedar grows best in full sun conditions.
- Where is Rocky Mountain Red-cedar native?
- Rocky Mountain Red-cedar (Juniperus scopulorum) is native to AZ, CO, ID, MT and 9 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Rocky Mountain Red-cedar toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Rocky Mountain Red-cedar as toxic to livestock.
- Is Rocky Mountain Red-cedar HOA-friendly?
- Rocky Mountain Red-cedar is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Rocky Mountain Red-cedar? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz