Also known as Black Hawthorn · European Buckthorn · Italian Buckthorn
Mediterranean buckthorn (Rhamnus lycioides) is a spiny shrub native to the Mediterranean region, valued for its drought tolerance and ecological importance.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun
100% intensity
Thrives in direct sunlight for optimal growth and flowering.
Infrequent once established
25% intensity
Prefers well-draining soil. Drought tolerant.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate to hot
75% intensity
Prefers warm to hot conditions. Tolerates heat and some frost.
Low requirement
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring if needed. Benefits from lean conditions.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Rhamnus lycioides moderately during its establishment phase and dry periods. Once established, it is highly drought-tolerant and prefers infrequent watering.
Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot, especially in well-draining soils.
Prune Rhamnus lycioides to maintain its shape and size, or to remove dead or crossing branches. The best time for pruning is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Light shaping can also be done after flowering. It responds well to hard pruning if needed.
Propagate Rhamnus lycioides from seed sown in autumn or spring, or from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Seeds may require stratification.
Cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone and placed in a well-draining medium in a warm, humid environment.
Repot young Rhamnus lycioides plants every 2-3 years in spring, or when they become root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Mature plants are generally best left in situ as they dislike root disturbance and are very drought-tolerant once established.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Mediterranean Buckthorn (Rhamnus lycioides)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rhamnaceae |
| Genus | Rhamnus |
| Species | Rhamnus lycioides |
Similar in genus Rhamnus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
