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Cedar fever: How much do you know about the trees that cause our sniffles and sneezes?

Millions of Ashe Juniper trees – often called Mountain Cedar – seem to conspire against us each year during allergy season.

AUSTIN, Texas — One can’t deny the scenic beauty of Austin. But lurking among the millions of trees that grace our city are some that many don’t appreciate this time of year: Ashe Junipers, also known as Mountain Cedar, whose pollen causes severe allergic reactions for many.

Pollen literally explodes from the trees after a cold snap, with January seeing the greatest eruptions.

But while they're a familiar part of the Austin landscape, do you know much about these evergreens? Here are some fun facts:

How many Ashe Juniper trees are in Austin?

The Texas A&M Forest Service estimates that there are over 13 million of them. In fact, the Ashe Juniper makes up 39% of the estimated 33.8 million trees in Austin – the biggest category of trees in the city.

Where did all those Ashe Junipers come from?

They were here long before we arrived. Ashe Junipers first appeared during the Ice Age, which began around two-and-a-half million years ago. 

How far can the pollen from an Ashe Juniper tree travel? 

Scientists say the pollen from an erupting tree can travel at least 300 miles. 

You may also be surprised to learn that there are male and female Ashe Juniper trees. The females produce blue, berry-like cones while the males produce the pollen that causes our seasonal misery – the facts of life about Austin’s most plentiful tree. 

WATCH: Cedar fever, the flu or COVID-19? Explaining the differences in symptoms

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