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Description
Rhamnus Alaternus, commonly known as the Mediterranean Buckthorn or the Italian Buckthorn, is a large shrub or small tree that is native to the Mediterranean region. It grows up to 6 meters tall, and its leaves are dark green, glossy, and oval-shaped. The plant produces small, fragrant, creamy-white flowers in the spring, which are followed by black or red berries in the autumn.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rhamnales |
| Family | Rhamnaceae |
| Genus | Rhamnus |
Appearance
The Rhamnus Alaternus has a dense, bushy growth habit that makes it an excellent choice for hedges and screening. Its dark green leaves are shiny and oval-shaped, measuring 2-8 cm long and 1-3 cm wide. The plant produces small, fragrant, creamy-white flowers in the spring, which are followed by black or red berries in the autumn. The berries are a food source for birds and small mammals.
Care Guide
The Rhamnus Alaternus is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
- Water: Water your plant regularly, especially during the growing season. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Feed your plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant tolerates full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Rhamnus Alaternus is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may be affected by spider mites, scale insects, and aphids. To control these pests, use a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. The plant may also be affected by powdery mildew and leaf spot, which can be prevented by improving air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
The Rhamnus Alaternus is native to the Mediterranean region, where it grows in dry, rocky habitats. The plant is commonly used in landscaping and is often planted as a hedge or screen.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Rhamnus Alaternus poisonous?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic if ingested. All parts of the plant contain a toxin called rhamnocitrin, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms if consumed.
Q: Can the Rhamnus Alaternus be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container, but it may require more frequent watering and fertilization than plants grown in the ground.
Q: Can the Rhamnus Alaternus be used as a hedge?
A: Yes, the plant is commonly used as a hedge due to its dense growth habit and glossy leaves.
Q: When should I prune my Rhamnus Alaternus?
A: The plant can be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Prune back any dead or damaged branches, as well as any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other.
Related Plants
- Rhamnus cathartica
- Rhamnus frangula
- Rhamnus alnifolia
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Rhamnus alaternus. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=283904
- University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. (n.d.). Mediterranean Buckthorn. Retrieved from https://ucanr.edu/sites/UrbanHort/Composting_and_Gardening_in_Urban_Areas/Mediterranean_Buckthorn/
- Wikipedia. (2021). Rhamnus alaternus. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhamnus_alaternus
