Also known as Beechleaf Buckthorn · Beechleaf Frangula · Birch-Leaf Buckthorn
Frangula betulifolia, the birchleaf buckthorn, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to southwestern North America, offering spring flowers and autumn berries.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Part Shade
50% intensity
Prefers full sun for best flowering and fruiting, but tolerates partial shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained. Reduce watering in winter.
Well-drained soil
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Hardy in USDA zones 4-8. Prefers moderate temperatures and can withstand some frost.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced fertilizer if needed. Over-fertilizing is detrimental.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|
Fruits are mildly toxic if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially during the first year, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in cooler months.
Allow the top few centimeters of soil to dry out between waterings once established to prevent root rot.
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches to maintain structure and promote air circulation. Light pruning can be done after flowering to shape the plant.
Propagate from seeds collected in autumn, which require stratification. Semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer can also be rooted under controlled conditions with the aid of rooting hormone.
Repot young plants every 2-3 years in spring to provide fresh soil and adequate space for root growth. Mature plants generally do not require frequent repotting and can be established in their final location.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Birchleaf Buckthorn (Frangula betulifolia)
Where Birchleaf Buckthorn (Frangula betulifolia) is found
Density
Tap map to explore
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rhamnaceae |
| Genus | Frangula |
| Species | Frangula betulifolia |
Similar in genus Frangula
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
