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Alder buckthorn

Rhamnus frangula 'Asplenifolia'

RAM-nus FRANG-ew-lah

A bushy, deciduous, slow-growing shrub with finely textured, scalloped leaves, this plant grows to 12 feet tall and almost as wide. 'Asplenifolia' bears clusters of green flowers, followed by round red fruit that ripens to black in the fall. Grow in a shrub border or as hedging. All parts may cause severe discomfort if ingested.

Noteworthy CharacteristicsFlowers are very attractive to bees. Red fall color. Slow-growing cultivar. Fern-like leaves.

CarePrefers moist soil in full sun or partial shade.

PropagationSow seed in a cold frame as soon as ripe. Root greenwood cuttings in early summer, or layer in fall or spring.

ProblemsScale insects, caterpillars, rust, and Cercospora and Septoria leaf spots.

  • Genus : Rhamnus
  • Plant Height : 10 to 15 feet
  • Zones : 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
  • Plant Width : 6 to 10 feet
  • Bloom Time : Early Summer, Late Spring, Spring, Summer
  • Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
  • Flower Color : Green
  • Moisture : Medium to Wet
  • Growth Rate : Moderate
  • Maintenance : Moderate
  • Characteristics : Showy Fall Foliage, Showy Fruit
  • Plant Type : Shrubs
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Summer Interest

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