Common Buckthorn

( Rhamnus cathartica L )

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
Height can grow 20-25 feet tall and up to 10 inches in diameter

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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 disturbed and undisturbed 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.