Which of the following characteristics best describes Eastern Red Cedar?

Eastern Red Cedar, scientifically known as Juniperus virginiana, is best characterized as a rapidly expanding native conifer. This species is actually a type of juniper and is notable for its evergreen characteristics, which means it retains its leaves year-round, unlike deciduous trees that lose their leaves seasonally.

As a native conifer, Eastern Red Cedar has a certain adaptability that allows it to thrive in a variety of conditions, including less favorable environments where other tree species may struggle. This adaptability has contributed to its rapid expansion across many landscapes, often encroaching on grasslands and open areas. Consequently, its proliferation can have significant ecological impacts, altering habitats and affecting local biodiversity.

The other options, while they describe characteristics of other trees or conditions, do not accurately represent the Eastern Red Cedar. For instance, it does not have large, broad leaves; rather, it has scale-like or needle-like leaves that are quite small. Additionally, it is not a deciduous tree but evergreen, and it does not require wetland conditions, as it can thrive in dry or rocky soils. This combination of characteristics illustrates why the selected description is correct.