Why are juniper berries classified as a spice rather than a true berry?
Answer
They are classified this way due to their coniferous origin.
Juniper berries are botanically distinct from true berries because they are technically the seed cones produced by *Juniperus* evergreen shrubs, which are coniferous plants. This coniferous origin places them in a classification group more aligned with spices rather than fleshy fruits commonly referred to as berries. This distinction is relevant in botanical discussions, although in culinary contexts, they are often treated similarly to strong spices, imparting a pungent and slightly piney flavor essential for things like gin production.
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