Contents
Description
Frangula, also known as Alder Buckthorn, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the family Rhamnaceae. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa and is commonly found in wetlands, stream banks, and forest edges. Frangula has a dense, rounded crown with multiple stems that can reach up to 20 feet in height. The bark of the tree is smooth and grayish-brown, with small white lenticels.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukaryota ||———–|———–|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Tracheophyta || Class| Magnoliopsida || Order| Rosales|| Family| Rhamnaceae || Genus| Frangula|
Appearance
Frangula leaves are alternate and elliptic, with a glossy dark green color on the top and a lighter green color on the bottom. They are also finely toothed and have a pointed tip. The flowers of the plant are small, greenish-yellow, and bloom in early summer. The fruit of the plant is a small black drupe that ripens in the fall and persists through the winter. Frangula has a moderate growth rate and can live up to 100 years.
Care Guide
Frangula prefers moist and well-drained soil and can tolerate partial shade to full sun exposure. It is recommended to water the plant regularly during the growing season and avoid overwatering, as it can cause root rot. Fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer in the spring. Frangula is hardy in USDA zones 3-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Frangula is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Frangula is also prone to fungal diseases such as leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot. These diseases can be prevented by maintaining good air circulation and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Frangula is commonly found in wetlands, stream banks, and forest edges. It is also found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and abandoned fields. Frangula can tolerate a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clay and acidic to alkaline.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Frangula poisonous?
A: Yes, Frangula contains anthraquinone glycosides that can cause vomiting and diarrhea if ingested.
Q: Can Frangula be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, Frangula has been used as a laxative and to treat constipation and other digestive problems.
Q: How do I propagate Frangula?
A: Frangula can be propagated by seed or by hardwood cuttings taken in the fall.
Q: Can Frangula be used for landscaping?
A: Yes, Frangula can be used as a border plant or in a mixed shrub border. Its ornamental features include its glossy leaves and black fruit.
Related Plants
– Rhamnus cathartica (Common Buckthorn)- Rhamnus frangula (Glossy Buckthorn)- Rhamnus alaternus (Mediterranean Buckthorn)
References
– “Frangula alnus (Alder Buckthorn).” Illinois Wildflowers. Illinois Wildflowers, n.d. Web. 12 Dec. 2021.- “Frangula alnus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 12 Dec. 2021.- “Frangula alnus.” Plant Finder. The Morton Arboretum, n.d. Web. 12 Dec. 2021.
