Italian buckthorn

Rhamnus alaternus

A sea of blossoms on dry land.

Shrub5.5×5 mzone 7–9partial shade

Profile

Family: Rhamnaceae
Habit: Shrub
Height: 5.5 m
Spread: 5 m
Growth: fast
Lifespan: 75 years
First yield: after 3 years
Hardiness: zone 7–9
Shade tolerance: partial shade
Soil: Sand, Silt, Loam
Soil moisture: dry – very moist
pH: 6 – 8.5

evergreensuitable for hedgesthorny

Flowering & harvest

	J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D
Flowering
Fruit harvest

Times apply to the northern hemisphere in a temperate climate and shift with altitude and cultivar.

Uses

Medicinal1 of 10

Other uses3 of 10

Origin & habitat

Mediterranean countries to Asia Minor, Central Asia, Afghanistan, North Africa, Southwest Asia

Trockene Heiden und Hänge, lichte Wälder, Gebüsche, Macchien, Garrigues

⚠️ Hazards

Toxicity: slightly toxic

Although no specific mention of toxicity has been found for this species, there is a suspicion that some members of this genus may be mildly toxic.

This is no substitute for expert identification. When in doubt, do not eat it.

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