Rhamnus alaternus - buckthorn (Forest buckthorn)

Genus of 125 or more species of evergreen or deciduous, thorny shrubs and trees, widespread especially in northern temperate regions with a few species in the northern hemisphere. Rhamnus alaternus is an erect and spreading evergreen shrub, with alternate ovate to oblong, leathery, shiny, dark green leaves. In late spring and early summer, it bears unisexual and hermaphroditic, yellow-green flowers in axillary clusters; they are followed by red spherical fruits, which turn black in late summer. It can reach 5 m in height.

Pedoclimatic needs

It prefers sunny and warm exposures and adapts to acidic, calcareous and stony soils. It resists drought, excessive humidity and saltiness brought by sea winds well. It tolerates short frosts -6°/-10°C up to 800 m above sea level. It is also adaptable to cultivation in pots.

Botanical Information

Botanical Name: Rhamnus alaternus

Family: Rhamnaceae