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Description
Frangula Caroliniana, also known as Carolina Buckthorn, is a deciduous shrub species that is native to North America. Growing up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide, it is often found in wetlands, swamps, and along stream banks. The plant has a narrow, open crown with small greenish-yellow flowers that bloom in May and June. The fruit of the Carolina Buckthorn is a small black drupe that ripens in late summer and early fall. This plant is often used for erosion control due to its ability to grow in wet areas.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rhamnales |
| Family | Rhamnaceae |
| Genus | Frangula |
Appearance
The Carolina Buckthorn has a narrow, open crown with an irregular shape. The plant has a smooth, grayish-brown bark with small greenish-yellow flowers that bloom in May and June. The leaves are simple, alternate, and ovate to elliptic in shape with an entire margin. They are typically 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. In the fall, the leaves turn a yellow-green color before dropping from the tree. The fruit of the Carolina Buckthorn is a small black drupe that ripens in late summer and early fall.
Care Guide
Frangula Caroliniana is a hardy plant that requires minimal care once established. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. Here are some care tips to keep your Carolina Buckthorn healthy:- Water: Water regularly, especially during dry spells.- Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.- Soil: Carolina Buckthorn prefers moist, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic.- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun.- Hardiness Zones: Frangula Caroliniana is hardy in zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Carolina Buckthorn is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues that may occur:- Leaf spot: A fungal disease that causes dark spots on the leaves.- Scale insects: Small, oval-shaped insects that suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing and wilting leaves.- Aphids: Small, pear-shaped insects that suck sap from the plant, causing curling and distorted leaves.
Habitat
Frangula Caroliniana is native to North America and is commonly found in wetlands, swamps, and along stream banks. The plant is often used for erosion control due to its ability to grow in wet areas. It can also be found in forests and on the edges of ponds and lakes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Frangula Caroliniana toxic to humans or animals?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic. The bark and fruit contain compounds that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal symptoms if ingested.
Q: Can Carolina Buckthorn be grown in containers?
A: No, the plant is too large and requires a lot of space to grow.
Q: When is the best time to prune Frangula Caroliniana?
A: The best time to prune the plant is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Q: How fast does Carolina Buckthorn grow?
A: The plant typically grows 1-2 feet per year.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Frangula Caroliniana:- Frangula Alnus (Glossy Buckthorn)- Rhamnus Cathartica (Common Buckthorn)- Rhamnus Frangula (Alder Buckthorn)
References
– “Frangula caroliniana.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=292957. Accessed 10 Mar. 2021.- “Frangula caroliniana.” NC State Extension, 2021, plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/frangula-caroliniana/. Accessed 10 Mar. 2021.- “Frangula caroliniana.” USDA Plants, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=FRCAC. Accessed 10 Mar. 2021.
