Consulta Plantas

Care of the shrub Rhamnus alaternus or Mediterranean buckthorn

The genus Rhamnus, family Rhamnaceae, comprises 100 species of deciduous and evergreen shrubs native to South Africa, South America, and temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Some species are: Rhamnus alaternus, Rhamnus alpina, Rhamnus frangula, Rhamnus cathartica, Rhamnus pumila, Rhamnus pushiana.

Common names: Italian buckthorn, Mediterranean buckthorn. This species is native to the Mediterranean region.

They are thorny bushes that reach 4 meters (13.12 feet) in height. They have alternate oval or oblong-lanceolate leaves. The flowers are greenish and have no ornamental interest, unlike the showy fruits first red and then black or dark purple.

These very hardy plants bring a wild note to the garden. They are dioecious plants so it's convenient to plant male and female specimens to bear fruit.

Rhamnus alaternus needs full or semi-shade exposure and warm temperatures. The roots are sensitive to frost; They should be protected with a layer of straw or dry leaves in winter.

The soil must be permeable but with a certain capacity to retain water. Transplant or plant in fall or late winter.

Water moderately throughout the year waiting for the substrate to dry.

Fertilize in fall with compost or manure.

They can be attacked by rust, caterpillars and other insects that feed on the leaves.

They are propagated from their seeds and by cuttings in late summer.

Images of the shrub Rhamnus alaternus or Mediterranean buckthorn