Sh-t man, might be a fake-out, that is - not a true conifer. I may be totally wrong as a picture can only describe so much, but it looks like it might be a casuarina, also known as "beefwood" (where the hell does this name come from?), native to australia. The fruits on these trees even somewhat resemble small cones (like that of an alder). Weird tree, considered invasive in many parts of the west, but it can grow to heights of great stature.

If I'm totally wrong, I apologize.

Here is a link that might be useful: {{gwi:854854}}

Any chance of a really close-up macro of the foliage? Also of a cone if there are any. Best guess is a juniper, but it could also be one of the Eurasian Cupressus, or even (if they are giving it winter protection) a Callitris. But not enough detail visible here to be sure.

Resin

This is the closest shot I have of the foliage. I looked over the whole plant for cones and none were visible. This plant does not receive any special winter protection. Thanks.

{{gwi:854860}}

Callitris.

They'll need to protect it in winter, only hardy down to about -8°C or so.

Resin

Possibly the browning and tight growth in the lower part of the crown indicates past difficulty with cold weather.

Callitris glaucophylla most likely. Mine looks similar here.

I think this is a shrub of the family Casuarinaceae - some may Gymnostoma sp. (Angiosperms).

http://www.chah.gov.au/images/photo_cd/526_FAGG/DSC_3015_3.jpg

That does look frighteningly similar!

Resin

Wrong branching habit and color for Gymnostoma. Not to mention that these are virtually non-existent in cultivation in the U.S.

Well it was supposed to be Callitris oblonga so that may indeed be what it is. I was initially suspicious since some of the plants on campus were apparently sold or planted with incorrect names.

Thanks for your thoughts about this plant. We'll see if this current cold snap kills it off. Weather stations in that area just dropped to 12-13F this morning.