Rhamnus frangula syn. Frangula alnus

Plant Details

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General Information

Scientific name: Rhamnus frangula syn. Frangula alnus
Also known as: Alder Buckthorn

Plant Properties

Layer: Shrub
Format: Medium
Height: 5.00 m
Width: 4.00 m
Growth Rate: Fast
Leaf: Deciduous

Growth conditions

USDA Hardiness: 3-7
Soil Moisture:
Wet, Moist
Soil:
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
pH:
Acid Neutral Basic
Light:
Sun, Half shade

Usage properties

Edible part:
Edibility:
(0)
Medicinal:
(0)
Features:
Hedge, Bee plant, Wood

Description

A yellow dye is obtained from the leaves and bark. This dye is widely used in Russia and turns black when mixed with iron salts. A green dye is obtained from the unripe fruits, while a blue or gray dye is obtained from the ripe berries. Plants can be grown as an informal (uncut) hedge, although they are also suitable for pruning. The cultivar 'Tallhedge' (synonym 'Columnaris') is very suitable for this. The wood is used to make wooden pegs, shoe lasts, veneer, and so on. It is the source of high-quality charcoal used by artists.

Harvest Data

Start Harvest: 01/08
End of Harvest: 31/10

Guilds

Guild Information

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Guild Details

Guild Description
Galium odoratum syn. Asperula odorata
Sweet woodruff
Acts as a ground cover that helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Punica granatum
Pomegranate
Reduces soil erosion with its strong root systems and provides habitat for wildlife.
Viburnum opulus
Highbush cranberry
Provides additional structure for wildlife and can produce edible berries.
Rubus fruticosus
Blackberry
Forms a thicket that provides protection for small animals and can produce edible fruits.
Lonicera periclymenum
Honeysuckle, European honeysuckle
An attractant for pollinators and can also improve soil structure.