Italian Buckthorn (Rhamnus Alaternus) is a perennial shrub in the Rhamnaceae family with easy care difficulty. It requires low watering and full sun or partial shade light in USDA hardiness zones 8-11. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets.

An evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region, known for its glossy, leathery leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers.

Italian Buckthorn

Italian Buckthorn

Rhamnus Alaternus

An evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region, known for its glossy, leathery leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers.

Quick Facts

Type
shrub
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Easy
Water Needs
Low
Light
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Hardiness Zones
8-11

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
☠️
Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:clay, sandy, loamy, rocky
Indoor:No
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:hedge, screen, erosion control, wildlife habitat

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for Italian Buckthorn

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

Italian Buckthorn
Italian Buckthorn detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Rhamnaceae
Genus:Rhamnus