Origin
Frangula rubra (Greene) V. Grub. ssp. rubra, commonly known as red alder or red buckthorn, is a shrub or small tree native to western North America. It is widely distributed throughout coastal regions and foothills, from British Columbia to California.
Common Names
Frangula rubra has several common names aside from red alder or red buckthorn, including Oregon alder, western buckthorn, and bearberry-leaved buckthorn. These names often vary according to its geographical location.
Uses
Frangula rubra has been traditionally used in Native American medicine for treating various illnesses. Its bark contains compounds that have laxative and cathartic effects, making it a common ingredient in modern herbal medicines for constipation, sluggish bowels, and other gastrointestinal issues. The plant's wood is also used to make a variety of products, including furniture, tools, and musical instruments.
General Appearance
Frangula rubra is a deciduous shrub or small tree that grows up to 10 meters tall. It has a narrow, columnar shape and a smooth, gray-brown bark. The plant's leaves are alternately arranged along the stems, elliptical to oval-shaped with serrated edges, and glossy on the upper surface. Its flowers are small and inconspicuous, emerging in clusters along the branches in late spring to early summer. After flowering, the plant produces red or black drupes that ripen in the fall. Overall, Frangula rubra is an attractive plant, with its glossy foliage and showy fruit that adds interest to the landscape.
Growth Conditions of Frangula rubra ssp. rubra
Frangula rubra ssp. rubra, also known by its common name Red Alder Buckthorn, is a deciduous shrub that typically grows in moist and wet areas. Here are some growth conditions that are required for the proper growth of this plant.
Light
The Red Alder Buckthorn plant grows best in partial to full shade. It does not tolerate full sun and may require protection from afternoon sun in hotter climates.
Temperature
This plant species prefers cool to temperate climates with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. It can tolerate frost and freezing temperatures in winter but may suffer damage during prolonged periods of extreme cold.
Soil Requirements
The Frangula rubra ssp. rubra plant prefers moist to wet, well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soils, including clay, sand, and loam. This plant requires slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 5.0 to 6.5 for optimal growth.
Overall, providing the right amount of shade, cool temperature, and well-drained, slightly acidic soil can provide the ideal growth conditions for the Red Alder Buckthorn plant.
Cultivation Methods
Frangula rubra (Greene) V. Grub. ssp. rubra, commonly known as red alder, is a plant that requires moderate care and can be grown in different soil types. The plant grows best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers partial to full sunlight for optimum growth and development. When cultivating Frangula rubra (Greene) V. Grub. ssp. rubra, it is necessary to ensure proper spacing between the plants. This will allow for adequate air circulation, prevent the spread of diseases, and ensure that the plants grow up to their full potential.Watering Needs
Frangula rubra (Greene) V. Grub. ssp. rubra is a relatively drought-tolerant plant. However, it requires regular watering, especially during the summer months when the weather is hot and dry. It is crucial to ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot. The watering frequency and amount should be adjusted based on the weather conditions and the specific requirements of the plant. It is recommended to water the plant deeply once or twice a week, rather than watering lightly every day.Fertilization
Frangula rubra (Greene) V. Grub. ssp. rubra does not require frequent fertilization. However, it can benefit from occasional feeding to promote healthy growth and development. It is recommended to use a slow-release fertilizer that is rich in organic matter. Fertilization should be done during the early spring months, just before the plant begins to grow actively. It is best to follow the instructions provided with the fertilizer, as over-fertilization can harm the plant.Pruning
Frangula rubra (Greene) V. Grub. ssp. rubra is a plant that responds well to pruning and shaping. Regular pruning can help to maintain the shape of the plant, improve air circulation, and promote healthy growth. It is recommended to prune the plant during the late winter or early spring months, before the new growth begins. When pruning Frangula rubra (Greene) V. Grub. ssp. rubra, it is necessary to use sharp and clean pruning shears. The cuts should be made just above a leaf node to promote new growth in the desired direction. It is also recommended to remove the dead, damaged, or diseased branches promptly to prevent the spread of diseases.Propagation of Frangula rubra (Greene) V. Grub. ssp. rubra
Frangula rubra (Greene) V. Grub. ssp. rubra, commonly known as red buckthorn, can be propagated through various methods. The following are the most common propagation methods:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is a relatively simple and cost-effective method. The seeds should be collected from ripe fruit in the fall. They can be stored in a cool, dry place until the following spring. The seeds should be stratified for 90-120 days before sowing. This will help to break the seed dormancy and promote germination. After stratification, the seeds can be sown in a well-draining seedbed. The seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent location after a year.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings propagation is a method of cloning a plant. It is commonly used for woody plants. The cuttings should be taken from the current season's growth in the summer. They should be 3-5 inches long and have at least two nodes. The bottom node should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix. The cutting should be kept in a warm and humid place until new growth appears.
Division Propagation
Division propagation involves dividing an established plant into smaller clumps. This is a quick way to increase the number of plants. The best time to divide the plant is in the spring or fall. The plant should be lifted from the soil, and the root clump should be divided into smaller sections. Each section should have a few stems and roots. The divided sections can be transplanted to their new location.
Disease and Pest Management for Frangula rubra (Greene) V. Grub. ssp. rubra
Frangula rubra (Greene) V. Grub. ssp. rubra, commonly known as Red Buckthorn, is a species of shrub that is commonly used in gardening and landscaping due to its ornamental value and tolerance to dry conditions. However, like any other plant, it is susceptible to a range of diseases and pests that can affect its growth and health. Below are some of the common diseases and pests of Frangula rubra and how to manage them.
Diseases
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot manifests as circular to oval, dark brown lesions on the leaves of the plant. It is caused by the fungus Cercospora frangulae. To manage this disease, remove and destroy the infected leaves, and avoid overhead watering. Also, improve air circulation around the plant by pruning and thinning excess branches.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is caused by the fungus Erysiphe cichoracearum. It appears as white to grayish powdery patches on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering, and remove and destroy the infected plant parts. You can also apply fungicides, such as neem oil or copper-based fungicides, but make sure to follow the instructions on the label.
Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that causes the roots of the plant to rot, leading to stunted growth and even death. It is caused by various fungi, including Phytophthora and Pythium. To manage root rot, ensure that the plant is growing in well-draining soil. Reduce watering if the soil is already moist, and avoid burying the plant too deep. Applying fungicides may also help, but prevention is always the best approach.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can cause leaves to curl and turn yellow, and stunt growth. To manage aphids, you can use strong jets of water to dislodge them from the plant. You can also introduce natural predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings, to control their population. Applying insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be effective, but be sure to follow the instructions on the label.
Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the stems and leaves of the plant. They can cause yellowing and dropping of leaves and even death. To manage scale insects, use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to remove them from the plant. You can also apply horticultural oil to suffocate them and disrupt their life cycle.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny spider-like creatures that feed on the plant's sap. They can cause leaves to turn yellow and drop prematurely. To manage spider mites, use strong jets of water to dislodge them from the plant. You can also apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, but be sure to follow the instructions on the label.
Managing diseases and pests requires a combination of preventative and proactive measures. Always keep an eye on your plants, and promptly identify and address any problems that arise. With proper care and management, your Frangula rubra (Greene) V. Grub. ssp. rubra can thrive and add beauty to your garden or landscape.
