Rhamnus Cathartica - Common Buckthorn

Rhamnus cathartica, commonly known as Common Buckthorn or Purging Buckthorn, is a large, dense, spiny deciduous shrub with a suckering habit. Found naturally on chalky soils, it will grow in most soil types and conditions, making it a tough and hardy choice for woodland, hedging, or mixed native planting schemes.

An important plant for wildlife, its leaves are one of only two food sources for the caterpillars of the Brimstone butterfly. The flowers attract adult Brimstones in spring, and the berries provide food for birds throughout autumn and winter. Historically, the berries were used as a powerful laxative and a source of yellow dye.

This is the size and type we sell:

Rhamnus cathartica Common Buckthorn 40–60cm Cell Grown

Rhamnus cathartica Common Buckthorn 40–60cm 1u1

Professionally grown and suitable for hedging, woodland, and wildlife-friendly planting.

Features & Benefits

Dense, spiny deciduous shrub with suckering habit

Provides essential habitat and food for Brimstone butterflies, Tiger Moths, and birds

Tolerates most soils and conditions, including shade

Produces attractive flowers in spring and black berries in autumn

Can be used in hedging, woodland, or mixed native planting schemes

Historical uses: laxative preparation and yellow dye from berries

Applications

Woodland and hedgerow planting

Native mixed-species hedges

Wildlife gardens and conservation projects

Screening and informal hedges

Ecological planting schemes

Height & Spread (Approximate)

After 10 years: 6m height x 5m spread

After 20 years: 6m height x 5m spread

Growth assumes suitable site conditions.

Botanical Name | Rhamnus cathartica

Common Name | Common Buckthorn / Purging Buckthorn

Plant Type | Deciduous shrub

Growth Rate | Moderate

Mature Height | Up to 6m

Mature Spread | Up to 5m

Soil Type | Most soils; tolerates chalky, heavy, and lighter soils

Aspect | Full sun to partial shade

Hardiness | Fully hardy in the UK

Plant Size & Type | 40–60cm Cell Grown; 40–60cm 1u1

Maintenance | Hedges can be pruned July–August; generally low maintenance

Wildlife Value | Food for Brimstone and Tiger Moth caterpillars; flowers attract adult Brimstones; berries eaten by birds