Rhamnella franguloides

Rhamnella franguloides is a small tree or shrub that sheds its leaves. It belongs to the buckthorn family, Rhamnaceae. Its native range covers central and southern China and southern Korea. It also grows in western-central and southern Japan. Wild plants grow on slopes, beside roads, and in forests. These sites lie below about 3,610 feet [1,100 metres].

In gardens, it reaches 20–25 feet [6.1–7.62 metres] tall. Its rounded crown spreads about 15 feet [4.57 metres] wide. Growth proceeds at a medium rate. Young green branches bear long, soft hairs, sometimes quite densely. The simple leaves grow in an alternate pattern along stems. They have an oval to narrow shape and finely toothed edges. Each leaf has a rounded base and clear side veins. Leaves reach about 0.42 feet [0.13 metres] long. Their glossy green surface has a strong texture. In fall, the leaves turn gold before they drop.

Flowers open in May and June, in small cymes. Each cluster holds six to eight yellow-green flowers. Each flower has both male and female parts. The broad petals sit beside sepals with lightly hairy edges. The fruit is a drupe, with a seed inside. Fruits start yellow in summer, then turn orange and scarlet. They reach dark purple or almost black when ripe. Ripening runs from August through October. Birds eat the fruit and seeds. The changing fruit colors add interest before the gold fall leaves.

Grow this plant in full sun or partial shade. It accepts sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It also tolerates acid, neutral, and alkaline soil. Moist soil that drains well suits it best. North Carolina State lists USDA hardiness zones 7–9. Plants For A Future notes uncertainty about hardiness in Britain. That source suggests it may suit milder British areas. The plant tolerates heat and salt, with medium maintenance needs.

Its small size suits woodland gardens, slopes, and patio settings. It also fits naturalized areas and Asian-style gardens. Gardeners can raise it from seed, cuttings, or layers. North Carolina State reports no known insect pests or diseases. Plants For A Future lists the fruit as edible. It gives the plant a low food-use score. That source reports no known hazards or medicinal uses. This does not establish safety for pets or all plant parts.