Italian buckthorn thrives primarily in Mediterranean regions and can be found across several continents. While it is native to parts of southern Europe and northern Africa, its presence extends as an introduced species to other regions, including parts of Oceania and the British Isles. Italian buckthorn is cultivated for various purposes and, although it has established itself beyond its native range, in some areas, such as New Zealand, it is sometimes thought to be an ecological concern. Overall, italian buckthorn may have an impact on ecosystems outside its natural habitat.