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Description
Rhamnus Utilis, commonly known as the Chinese buckthorn, is a deciduous shrub belonging to the family Rhamnaceae. This plant is native to China and can grow up to 12 feet tall. The Chinese buckthorn has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine due to its many health benefits. It is also used in landscaping as a hedge or screen due to its dense foliage and thorny branches.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rhamnales |
| Family | Rhamnaceae |
| Genus | Rhamnus |
Appearance
The Chinese buckthorn has oval-shaped leaves that are dark green and glossy. The leaves can grow up to 3 inches long and have serrated edges. The plant produces small, greenish-yellow flowers in the spring, followed by black fruit in the fall. The fruit is approximately 1/4 inch in diameter and contains one or two seeds. The bark of the Chinese buckthorn is gray and smooth when young, but becomes rough and fissured as the plant ages.
Care Guide
When caring for the Chinese buckthorn, it is important to provide it with adequate water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and protection from harsh weather conditions. The plant prefers well-drained soil and should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods. Fertilize the Chinese buckthorn in the spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Chinese buckthorn is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including spider mites, scale insects, and leaf spot. Spider mites and scale insects can be treated with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Leaf spot can be prevented by ensuring proper soil drainage and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
The Chinese buckthorn is native to China and can be found growing in wooded areas, along riverbanks, and in scrublands. It has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America and Europe, where it is often used in landscaping.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Chinese buckthorn be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the Chinese buckthorn can be grown in a container, but it may not reach its full potential size.
Q: Is the Chinese buckthorn deer-resistant?
A: No, the Chinese buckthorn is not deer-resistant.
Q: Can the fruit of the Chinese buckthorn be eaten?
A: The fruit of the Chinese buckthorn is edible but has a bitter taste and is not commonly consumed.
Q: Does the Chinese buckthorn attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s flowers attract bees and other pollinators.
Related Plants
- Rhamnus Frangula
- Rhamnus Alaternus
- Rhamnus Cathartica
- Rhamnus Crocea
References
- “Rhamnus Utilis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 15 September 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c474>
- “Rhamnus Utilis.” PlantZAfrica.com. Accessed 15 September 2021. <http://pza.sanbi.org/rhamnus-utilis>
- “Rhamnus Utilis.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 15 September 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/24461/Rhamnus-utilis/Details>
