Alder buckthorn (Frangula alnus)

Also known as: Butcher's frick tree

The Alder buckthorn (Frangula alnus) is a deciduous shrub indigenous to Europe, northwestern Africa, and western Asia. It typically thrives in moist soils found in open woodlands and boggy areas. Historically, it has been utilized in the production of gunpowder. In the United States, it is regarded as an invasive species.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Alder buckthorn

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Shrub

Plant Height

3 m to 7 m

Spread

2.5 m to 3.5 m

Leaf Color

Green Yellow Red

Flower Size

3 mm to 5 mm

Flower Color

Green Yellow

Images of Alder buckthorn

Quickly Identify Alder buckthorn

Smooth, lustrous dark green leaves with 6-8 pairs of curving lateral veins.

Small globoid drupes transitioning from green to dark purple-black.

Branches with thorns, white lenticels, and distinct color shifts from young shoots to mature branches.

Creamy green flowers in solitary or umbel formations with 5 sepals, petals, stamens, and a pistil.

Moderately-sized tree or shrub up to 16 feet (4.9 meters) with evergreen or deciduous habit.

Scientific Classification of Alder buckthorn

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Rosales

Family

Buckthorn

Genus

Alder buckthorns

Species

Alder buckthorn

Planting and Growing of Alder buckthorn

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Alder buckthorn?

For Frangula alnus, water should penetrate the soil thoroughly, ensuring that the entire root zone is reached. Always aim for about 500 ml per session to maintain optimal soil moisture without waterlogging.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Alder buckthorn? ›

What should I do if my Alder buckthorn is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Alder buckthorn? ›

How to save an overwatered Alder buckthorn? ›

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Alder buckthorn?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

Frangula alnus benefits from partial to full sun exposure. Access to ample light ensures optimal photosynthesis, supporting vibrant foliage and healthy structural development.

How much sunlight does it require? ›

What can I do to ensure ideal sunlight exposure? ›

What benefits does it get from ideal sunlight? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Alder buckthorn?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

Frangula alnus thrives best in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F. These conditions are ideal for photosynthesis and other physiological processes essential to healthy growth and fruit production. Consistently maintaining this range fosters robust plant health.

What Soil is Best for Alder buckthorn?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Acidic soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Frangula alnus thrives in soil that is well-drained, preventing waterlogging which can lead to root rot. This capability ensures that the plant's roots receive adequate oxygen, promoting healthier growth and resilience against diseases. This plant prefers soil that can retain moisture yet doesn’t become waterlogged. Maintaining moisture levels helps the plant sustain its vibrant foliage and increases its resistance to environmental stress. A nutrient-rich soil supports effective growth and development of Frangula alnus. Adequate nutrients in the soil contribute to stronger plant structure and higher resistance against pests and diseases. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Alder buckthorn?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Frangula alnus, it's essential to apply a balanced fertilizer that leans towards a 5-10-5 NPK ratio. Use 1 tablespoon per gallon of water for liquid fertilizers, ensuring it's spread evenly across the root area. For granular types, sprinkle lightly to cover the surface around the plant's base. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Alder buckthorn?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Start by carefully examining the plant to identify dead, damaged, or crossing branches, which should be removed first as they can hinder growth. Follow by thinning out selectively to support better air circulation and sunlight penetration through the canopy. Make precise cuts at a 45-degree angle just above a healthy outward-facing bud or branch junction. This method promotes outward growth and prevents water from collecting on the cut surfaces, reducing the risk of rot and disease. Take care not to leave stubs, as they can become entry points for pests. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Alder buckthorn plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring, Late spring

Collect seeds from mature Frangula alnus fruits and clean them thoroughly. Soak the seeds in lukewarm water for 24 hours to soften the seed coat, enhancing the germination rate by ensuring water penetration.

Fill seed trays with a suitable seed-starting mix. Sow the seeds about 1 cm deep and cover them lightly with soil. Maintain a warm and humid environment to facilitate germination, which can take several weeks.

Select healthy, disease-free branches for cuttings, ideally from new growth. Cut sections about 10-15 cm long, ensuring each has several leaf nodes. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root development.

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How to Repot Alder buckthorn plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Repotting Frangula alnus should be considered when you notice the roots growing out of the drainage holes or the plant becoming root-bound. Spring or autumn is ideal for repotting, as the plant is less stressed and can recover quickly during these seasons.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one and has ample drainage holes. The increased space allows for root expansion and prevents waterlogging. Clay pots are excellent for this as they offer breathability, which benefits the root health of Frangula alnus.

Go for a well-draining, loamy soil to ensure optimal growth. Such soil mixtures retain the right amount of moisture while still allowing excess water to escape, which promotes robust root development and prevents issues like root rot.

Toxicity of Alder buckthorn

Is Alder buckthorn toxic to humans?

The alder buckthorn features attractive berries that should be avoided by adults and stored securely away from children. These berries are known to contain toxic glycosides, which can lead to gastrointestinal issues, including stomach upset, nausea, excessive drooling, vomiting, gas, cramps, and diarrhea. Young children or those consuming a larger quantity may experience more severe symptoms. Typically, these adverse effects will subside after several days.

Is Alder buckthorn toxic to cat?

Alder buckthorn is identified as a toxic species for cats, with each part of the plant posing a risk of harm. Cats may accidentally consume various parts of alder buckthorn, resulting in potential exposure to its toxic properties. Following ingestion, cats can display a range of physical ailments or symptoms of sickness that require urgent medical attention. In such cases, it is vital for cat owners to obtain veterinary assistance swiftly to secure the optimal outcome for their feline companion.

Is Alder buckthorn toxic to dog?

Alder buckthorn is recognized as toxic to dogs. Canines may inadvertently consume parts of this plant, resulting in a risk of poisoning. Every part of the plant, including its leaves, berries, bark, and roots, harbors toxic substances that can adversely affect a dog's health. Following the ingestion of alder buckthorn, dogs may show signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and alterations in urine color. It is essential for dog owners to remain alert and prevent their pets from coming into contact with alder buckthorn. If poisoning is suspected, prompt veterinary attention is vital to safeguard the health of the affected dog.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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