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Description
Rhamnus Lycioides, also known as the buckthorn tree, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the Rhamnaceae family. This plant is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa and is commonly found in dry and rocky areas. The buckthorn tree has a maximum height of 5 meters and a spread of 3 meters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rhamnales |
| Family | Rhamnaceae |
| Genus | Rhamnus |
Appearance
The buckthorn tree has a dense and rounded crown with a grey-brown bark that becomes smoother with age. Its leaves are simple, alternate, and ovate, with a length of 3-6 cm and a width of 2-3 cm. They are dark green in color and turn yellow in the fall. The flowers of the buckthorn tree are small, greenish-yellow, and bloom from April to May. The fruits are small and black, with a diameter of 4-6 mm, and ripen from August to September.
Care Guide
The buckthorn tree prefers a well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate partial shade but thrives in full sun. Water the plant regularly, especially during the first year of growth. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring. The buckthorn tree is hardy in USDA zones 4-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
The buckthorn tree is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including spider mites, scale insects, and leaf spot. Spider mites and scale insects can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Leaf spot can be prevented by ensuring that the plant is not overwatered and by removing any infected leaves.
Habitat
The buckthorn tree is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa and is commonly found in dry and rocky areas. It can grow in a variety of soil types and is often found in hedgerows, woodland edges, and scrubland.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the buckthorn tree poisonous?
A: Yes, the buckthorn tree is poisonous if ingested. Its fruits contain a toxic compound that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Q: Can the buckthorn tree be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the buckthorn tree can be grown in containers but may not grow as large as it would in the ground.
Q: How often should I prune the buckthorn tree?
A: The buckthorn tree does not require frequent pruning. Prune it only to remove any dead or diseased branches.
Q: How long does it take for the buckthorn tree to reach its maximum height?
A: It takes the buckthorn tree about 10-15 years to reach its maximum height of 5 meters.
Related Plants
- Rhamnus Alaternus
- Rhamnus Cathartica
- Rhamnus Frangula
- Rhamnus Purshiana
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2011). Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs. Timber Press.
- Huxley, A. (1992). The New RHS Dictionary of Gardening. Macmillan Press.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Rhamnus lycioides. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282938&isprofile=0&
