Rhamnus catharticus

Large shrub or small tree with short stem, 2-3 (8) m tall, 2-4 m wide, asymmetrical and loose, twig tips thorny; slow-growing.

Dioecious, inconspicuous yellow-green.

Pea-size black berries, very persistent, repugnant taste, unpalatable, poisonous.

Broadly oval, medium green, pale yellow in autumn, November.

Deep, forming runners, tolerates covering; sensitive to soil compaction.

Sun to semi-shade; resistant to heat, frost hardy; good for urban areas, wind resistant.

Dry to fresh, not demanding, robust, on all loose, well drained, chalky substrates, tolerant of salt.

Zone 4