Rhamnus Frangula - Alder Buckthorn

Rhamnus frangula, commonly known as Alder Buckthorn, is a fast-growing, bushy deciduous shrub or small tree with spreading branches. Often seen in woodlands, it provides good autumn colour and attractive fruits. Ecologically important, Alder Buckthorn is the host plant for Brimstone butterfly caterpillars and supports a variety of other wildlife. Tough and adaptable, it thrives in a wide range of conditions and is ideal for mixed wildlife hedges and woodland planting.

This is the size and type we sell:

Rhamnus frangula Alder Buckthorn 20–40cm Cell Grown

Rhamnus frangula Alder Buckthorn 40–60cm 1u1

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

Features & Benefits

Fast-growing deciduous shrub or small tree with spreading branches

Good autumn leaf colour and attractive fruits

Host plant for Brimstone butterfly caterpillars

Tolerant of a wide range of soils and pollution

Supports bees, insects, and birds with pollen and berries

Suitable for woodland, mixed wildlife hedging, and conservation schemes

Applications

Woodland and forest creation schemes

Mixed-species wildlife hedges

Large gardens and estates

Conservation and biodiversity projects

Ecological planting schemes

Height & Spread (Approximate)

After 10 years: 4m height x 4m spread

After 20 years: 4m height x 4m spread

Growth assumes suitable site conditions.

Botanical Name | Rhamnus frangula

Common Name | Alder Buckthorn

Plant Type | Deciduous shrub / small tree

Growth Rate | Fast

Mature Height | Up to 4–5m

Mature Spread | Up to 4–5m

Soil Type | Damp acidic soils preferred; tolerates most conditions

Aspect | Full sun to partial shade

Hardiness | Fully hardy in the UK; tolerates pollution

Plant Size & Type | 20–40cm Cell Grown; 40–60cm 1u1

Maintenance | Low maintenance; prune as required for hedge or shape

Wildlife Value | Host plant for Brimstone butterfly caterpillars; pollen for insects; berries eaten by birds