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Invasive Species: Common Buckthorn

Invasive Species: Common Buckthorn

Common Buckthorn

(Rhamnus cathartica)

*Established in Michigan*

Report this species:

Use the Midwest Invasive Species Information Network (MISIN) online reporting tool

- Or - download the MISIN smartphone app and report from your phone - MISIN.MSU.edu/tools/apps/#home

 

Common buckthorn branch with green leaves and dark purple fruit.

Photo courtesy of Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org.

Common buckthorn twigs up close, showing a sharp thorn.

Photo courtesy of Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org.

The silvery bark of common buckthorn is covered with small bumps.

Photo courtesy of Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org.

Identification:

  • Deciduous small tree or shrub – can reach 25 feet tall.
  • Leaves are dark- green, oval and slightly toothed.
  • In spring, small, yellow-green, 4-petaled flowers grow in clusters of 2-6 at the base of leaves.
  • Small, purple to black fruits ripen in the fall.
  • Twigs often have a single, sharp thorn at their tip.
  • Distinctive orange inner bark.

Habitat: Common buckthorn can be found in disturbed and undisturbed areas including roadsides, pastures, old fields and woodlots. 

Native Range: Europe and Asia.

U. S. Distribution:  East Coast and Midwest, also in limited areas of California and Oregon.

Local Concern: This invasive plant spreads quickly through seeds distributed by birds and wildlife and crowds out native shrubs and understory plants. It is a host for alfalfa mosaic virus and crown fungus, and may be a possible host for the soybean aphid.

MORE INFORMATION:

Common Buckthorn Invasive Species Alert - Printable PDF

Best Control Practice Guide for Common Buckthorn - This document provides in-depth information about common buckthorn in Michigan including identification, distribution, management and control options.