Brinjevec is a candidate for the classification as a specialty on the list of world-famous drinks. "Kraški brinjevec" is made of juniper berries from the species "Juniperus communis". "Juniperus communis" is a barbed evergreen shrub or low tree that grows in a dry karst terrain. It is a monosex plant and only female plants grow berries. Juniper berries ripen only every two or even three years, so the same bush often carries mature and immature berries. Mature berries are fleshy, dark blue, refreshing fruity smell with a bit sweet and bitter taste. Berries are gathered in October and November with a
Syzygium cordatum It is also used to treat respiratory ailments and tuberculosis Syzygium cordatum Syzygium cordatum is an evergreen, water-loving tree, which grows to a height of 8–15 m. This tree is often found near streams, on forest margins or in swampy spots. The leaves are elliptic to circular, bluish green on top and a paler green below. Young leaves are reddish. The white to pinkish fragrant flowers are borne in branched terminals and have numerous fluffy stamens and produce abundant nectar. It flowers from August to November. The fruits are oval berries, red to dark-purple when ripe. Common names are waterbessie