How to Grow and Care for Common buckthorn

Common buckthorn, also known as European buckthorn, Purging buckthorn, Hart's thorn

Common buckthorn is a hardy species requiring minimal maintenance, thriving in a wide range of soil types and moisture levels. Special care points include avoiding over-watering to prevent root rot and ensuring it does not spread uncontrollably as common buckthorn can be invasive. The ease of care makes common buckthorn suitable for many settings, though control measures should be employed to prevent ecological disruption.

Watering schedule: Every 3 weeks

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

Toxic to Humans

In This Article

Planting and Growing Common buckthorn

Toughness	High
Care Level	Low
Care Difficulty	Easy
Lifespan	Perennial
Watering Schedule	Every 3 weeks
Sunlight Requirements	Full sun
Soil pH	6.5-7.5
Planting Time	Fall
Hardiness Zones	3-8
Toxicity	Toxic to Humans

A Botanist in Your Pocket

Scan QR code to download

Common Pests & Diseases

Feedback

Common issues for Common buckthorn based on 10 million real cases

Plant disease auto-diagnose & prevention

AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.

Download the App for Free

The Toxicity of Common buckthorn

Feedback

Identify toxic plants in your garden

Find out what’s toxic and what’s safe for humans and pets.

Download the App for Free

More General Info About Common buckthorn

Feedback

Quickly Identify Common buckthorn

Feedback

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Common buckthorn is characterized by its function as a deciduous shrub or small tree. It features clusters of small, greenish flowers and produces small, dark berries. The leaves are elliptical, with serrated margins and prominent veins, typically growing to a length of 1-3 inches (2.5-7.6 cm). The plant's bark is gray-brown with a rough texture. It often reaches heights of 6-25 feet (1.8-7.6 meters) with a similar spread. It easily adapts to varied light conditions and has a moderate growth rate.