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European buckthorn

Rhamnus cathartica
Rhamnaceae

Multi-stem shrubs
A hedge of European buckthorn
Dense root mat of juvenile plant
Bark on small European buckthorn
Bark on larger individual
New leaves and flower buds mid-May
Male flowers early June
Green fruits late June
Ripening fruits mid-August
Ripe fruits early October
Fruit crop and yellowing leaves early October
Cutting board of buckthorn and maple

The European buckthorn is a dioecious small tree or shrub native to Eurasia.  It was introduced to North America in the early 1800's as a landscaping plant because it readily forms an attractive hedge when grown in a row.  It has naturalized so successfully in many areas that it is considered invasive.  Its dense root mass aids in the absorption and retention of water and would also inhibit the growth of other plants. 

At Salter Grove, there is a large female specimen on the hillock east of U9 but most other individuals found along the Upland and Pond Trails tend to be smaller-stemmed males.

Chemicals in the leaves and seeds can cause stomach cramps and have a laxative effect in humans.  Its scientific name cathartica refers to this characteristic.  Birds feeding on the ripe black fruits are thus probably guaranteed to disperse the seeds because of this effect on the gastrointestinal system.  The bark and fruit were used in traditional medicine as a purgative.

Its wood is quite dense and attractive in color but because of the small size attained by even the largest individuals, it is most often used in combination with other woods.