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Description
Frangula Purshiana, also known as Cascara Sagrada or Sacred Bark, is a native plant of North America that belongs to the Rhamnaceae family. It is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can grow up to 20 feet tall. The bark of the tree is used for medicinal purposes due to its laxative properties. It has small, greenish-yellow flowers that bloom in early summer and produce small, red or black berries that ripen in late summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rhamnaceae |
| Genus | Frangula |
Appearance
Frangula Purshiana is a deciduous shrub or small tree with an irregular, rounded shape. Its leaves are dark green, glossy, and oval-shaped with finely serrated edges. The leaves can grow up to 5 inches long and 2 inches wide. The bark of the tree is brownish-gray and smooth when young but becomes rough and fissured with age. The bark is used for medicinal purposes due to its laxative properties.
Care Guide
Frangula Purshiana prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun. It is hardy in USDA zones 5-8. Water the plant regularly during the growing season and fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in the spring. Prune the plant in the late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and size.
Common Pests & Diseases
Frangula Purshiana is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to leaf spot and powdery mildew.
Habitat
Frangula Purshiana is native to North America and can be found in moist, wooded areas, along streams, and in mountainous regions. It is commonly found in the Pacific Northwest, California, and the Rocky Mountains.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Frangula Purshiana poisonous?
A: The bark of Frangula Purshiana is safe to use in small doses for medicinal purposes. However, consuming large amounts of the bark can be toxic.Q: How long does it take for Frangula Purshiana to grow?
A: Frangula Purshiana can grow up to 1-2 feet per year and can reach its full height of 20 feet in around 20 years.Q: Can Frangula Purshiana be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Frangula Purshiana can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.Q: How often should Frangula Purshiana be pruned?
A: Frangula Purshiana should be pruned in the late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and size.
Related Plants
- Rhamnus cathartica (Common Buckthorn)
- Rhamnus frangula (Alder Buckthorn)
- Rhamnus alaternus (Italian Buckthorn)
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/shrub/frapur/all.html
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/frangula-purshiana-cascara-sagrada
- https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/shrub/frangula-purshiana/
