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How to Grow and Care for Alder buckthorn

Alder buckthorn, also known as Glossy buckthorn, Breaking buckthorn, European buckthorn, Black dogwood, Fen buckthorn

Alder buckthorn thrives outdoors in various soil types but prefers moist, well-drained conditions. It is a low-maintenance species, tolerating partial shade to full sun. Special care should be given to avoiding waterlogged soil to prevent root rot. Pruning is typically unnecessary unless shaping or removing dead branches. Alder buckthorn's adaptability makes it suitable for novice gardeners.

Watering schedule: Every 1-2 weeks

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

Toxic to Humans

In This Article

Planting and Growing Alder buckthorn

Toughness	High
Care Level	Low
Care Difficulty	Easy
Lifespan	Perennial
Watering Schedule	Every 1-2 weeks
Sunlight Requirements	Full sun
Soil Type	Garden Soil
Soil pH	5.5-6.5
Planting Time	Fall, Winter, Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer, Early spring
Hardiness Zones	3-8
Toxicity	Toxic to Humans

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Varieties of Alder buckthorn

Alder buckthorn 'Ron Williams'

Alder buckthorn 'Fine Line' is an attractive hybrid named for its fine, slender leaves. The parent shrub’s leaves are a more traditional pointed leaf shape. Alder buckthorn 'Ron Williams' is smaller than the parent too, topping out at around 2.5 m, making it an ideal size for containers and smaller gardens. It grows densely from ground level, making it an excellent screening shrub.

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The Toxicity of Alder buckthorn

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More General Info About Alder buckthorn

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Alder buckthorn appears as a moderately-sized tree or shrub reaching heights of approximately 16 feet (4.9 meters), with potential to grow slightly taller. Its branches bear thorns and exhibit a tendency to spread. While evergreen or decidesimal, alder buckthorn's notable features include a fleshy, black berry, which is toxic if consumed. It is favored as an ornamental plant, displaying the characteristic fragility of its twigs upon handling.