Rhamnus cathartica aka Common Buckthorn
Taxonomy
Rhamnus cathartica, also known as the European buckthorn, common buckthorn, or purging buckthorn, is a small tree or shrub in the Rhamnaceae family. It is native to Europe, northwest Africa, and western Asia, but was introduced to North America in the early 19th century as an ornamental shrub. It has since become naturalized in various locations, primarily extending from Nova Scotia to Saskatchewan, south to Missouri and Virginia. While it is easy to grow as a houseplant, it is considered an invasive species in several US states and in Ontario, Canada.
The common buckthorn is a thicket-forming deciduous shrub or small tree that can grow up to 25 feet tall. Its leaves are elliptic to oval, mostly subopposite, dark green, and toothed with 3-5 pairs of veins. The leaves retain their green color long into fall but eventually turn yellow. Small yellow-green flowers bloom in spring (April-June).
This buckthorn is also noted for having small spines at the branchlet ends. It prefers long-lasting, direct light and should be less than one foot from a window. Regular watering is necessary for its growth, but it does not require added fertilizers if repotted each time it doubles in size. Common Buckthorn belongs to the Rhamnus genus and is native to Europe, Western Siberia, Northwest China, and Northwestern Africa.
Common names
Common Buckthorn, Buckthorn, European BuckthornHow to care for Common Buckthorn
Difficulty
Common Buckthorn presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.
Water
Common Buckthorn should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Common Buckthorn prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Toxicity
Common Buckthorn is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
Fertilizer
Repotting the Common Buckthorn is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.
Region of origin
Common Buckthorn’s native range is Europe, including Britain, from Scandanavia south and east to N. Africa and W. Asia.
More info:
Wikipedia
