Common Buckthorn

( Rhamnus cathartica L )

QUICK IDENTIFICATION

  • Tall shrub or small tree
  • Buds and leaves are opposite
  • Often has short, sharp, spike-like thorns at the tips of twigs
  • Leaves are hairless, have 3-5 pairs of veins curing toward the tip from the mid-vein with tiny teeth along margins
  • Can grow up to 20-25 feet tall and is up to 10 inches in diameter

Weed Pictures

common-buckthorn-seedling
common-buckthorn-leave
common-buckthorn-thorn
common-buckthorn-bark
common-buckthron-flower
common-buckthorn-fruit

Weed Information

Type Information
Toxicity Mild
Control Mechanical and herbicide control most effective when tailored to site conditions. Monitoring is crucial. Contact your local County Weed District or local applicator for more information.
Habitat Occurs in a variety of habitats including roadsides, oil fields, prairies, and a variety of woodlands.
Root Large, extensive root system
Leaf Shape Egg-shaped with pointed tips, fine toothed edges
Lifespan Perennial: two years or longer
Priority 2A Weed Common in isolated areas of Montana
Similar Looking Plants Native plum or cherry trees & dogwoods
Important Information Male and female flowers are borne on separate shrubs. No appreciable predators or diseases feed on this plant to curtail its growth or spread. Buckthorn fruits are widely dispersed by animals.
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