Description of Rhamnus frangula L. var. angustifolia Loud.
Rhamnus frangula L. var. angustifolia Loud. is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rhamnaceae family. This plant is commonly known as Narrowleaf Buckthorn, Alder Buckthorn, Arrowwood, European Buckthorn, Dogwood, and Purging Buckthorn. The plant is native to Europe, Western Asia, and Northwest Africa and is also a highly invasive species in North America and Australia.
General Appearance
The Narrowleaf Buckthorn plant is usually small, growing to a height of 3-6 meters and a width of 1-2.5 meters. The plant has an erect and rounded form with a smooth and grayish-brown bark. The bark of the younger stems is usually green, while that of the older stems turns into grayish-brown. The leaves are glossy, oval with serrated edges, dark green, and grow up to 6 cm long. The flowers are small, green, and appear in clusters from May to June.
Uses
Historically, the bark, roots, and fruit of the Narrowleaf Buckthorn plant were used for medicinal purposes. The plant has cathartic, purgative, and laxative properties. The bark was used to treat constipation, while the fruit was used as a remedy for skin conditions such as psoriasis. Nowadays, the plant is used for ornamental purposes due to its attractive foliage and fruit. It is also a host plant for various butterfly species. However, the plant is highly invasive, and its use is discouraged.
Light Requirements
Rhamnus frangula L. var. angustifolia Loud. thrives best in partial to full sunlight exposure. Although it can tolerate some shade, it grows taller and fuller with more sunlight. As a result, it is ideal to plant the shrub in a spot that can receive between four to six hours of direct sunlight daily.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can grow in a wide range of temperatures, making it suitable for various regions. However, it thrives best in temperatures ranging from 60 to 80°F. The shrub can withstand cold temperatures of up to -20°F but can experience dieback in severe winters.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. Slightly acidic or neutral soils with a pH range of 5.0 to 7.5 are ideal. Rhamnus frangula L. var. angustifolia Loud. can also withstand poor soils but thrives better when well-fertilized with nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus to promote healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods for Rhamnus frangula L. var. angustifolia Loud.
Rhamnus frangula L. var. angustifolia Loud. is a hardy plant that can adapt to a variety of growing conditions. It is most commonly grown in gardens and landscapes as a small tree or shrub. Before planting, ensure that the soil is well-draining and has a pH range of 6.0-7.5. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade but can tolerate a range of light conditions.
Watering Needs for Rhamnus frangula L. var. angustifolia Loud.
Rhamnus frangula L. var. angustifolia Loud. prefers consistently moist soil, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. During the growing season, water the plant once a week or more frequently if the soil is particularly dry. In periods of heavy rainfall, reduce watering frequency accordingly.
Fertilization for Rhamnus frangula L. var. angustifolia Loud.
Fertilize Rhamnus frangula L. var. angustifolia Loud. with a balanced fertilizer in the early spring before new growth appears. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for application rates. If the plant appears to be lagging in growth or shows signs of nutrient deficiency, a second application may be applied in mid-summer.
Pruning for Rhamnus frangula L. var. angustifolia Loud.
Prune Rhamnus frangula L. var. angustifolia Loud. as necessary to maintain its desired shape and size. Late winter or early spring is the best time to prune, as this minimizes damage to new growth. Remove any dead or diseased branches as soon as they are noticed. Lightly prune the plant each year to stimulate growth and encourage branching.
Propagation of Rhamnus frangula L. var. angustifolia Loud.
Rhamnus frangula L. var. angustifolia Loud., commonly known as Narrow-leaved Alder Buckthorn or Glossy Buckthorn, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the buckthorn family (Rhamnaceae).
Propagation Methods
The propagation of Rhamnus frangula L. var. angustifolia Loud. can be carried out through several methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is a popular method of propagation in Rhamnus frangula L. var. angustifolia Loud. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining potting mixture in a nursery bed or seed tray. Germination typically occurs within 2-3 weeks.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation through cuttings involves taking cuttings of healthy stems and rooting them in a potting mix. The cuttings should be taken during the late spring or early summer when the plants are actively growing. The cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone and kept moist until they have rooted.
Layering Propagation
Propagation through layering involves bending a low-growing stem to the ground and rooting it in place. Once the stem has rooted, it can be separated from the parent plant and potted up.
Once the plants have rooted, they can be transplanted to their final growing location. Rhamnus frangula L. var. angustifolia Loud. is tolerant of a wide range of soil types and growing conditions, making it a relatively easy plant to propagate and grow.
Disease and Pest Management for Rhamnus frangula L. var. angustifolia Loud.
Rhamnus frangula L. var. angustifolia Loud., also known as narrow-leaved alder buckthorn, is a deciduous shrub commonly found in wetlands, swamps, and along riverbanks. It is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but like any other plant, it can still be susceptible to certain issues. In this section, we will discuss some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggest ways to manage them.
Common diseases
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes leaf spots, defoliation, and stem cankers. To manage anthracnose, it is recommended to prune and dispose of affected branches, encourage good airflow and sunlight, and apply fungicide if the disease is severe.
Cytospora canker: This fungal disease causes sunken cankers on branches and stems, which can eventually cause dieback and death of the plant. To manage cytospora canker, prune affected branches and avoid injuring the plant while pruning. Make sure to sanitize pruning tools between cuts and destroy infected branches.
Root rot: Root rot is caused by waterlogging and poorly-drained soils, which can lead to root decay and eventual death of the plant. To manage root rot, make sure the plant is growing in well-drained soils, avoid over-watering, and remove affected plants from the site.
Common pests
Alder sawfly: The alder sawfly is a common pest that feeds on the foliage of the plant, causing defoliation. To manage this pest, it is recommended to prune and dispose of affected branches, use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil, and encourage natural predators like birds and parasitic wasps.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing and browning of the leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water to remove them and improve humidity, introduce natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings, and apply insecticides if the infestation is severe.
Scale insects: Scale insects are another common pest that feeds on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing and stunted growth. To manage scale insects, prune affected branches, use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil, and encourage natural predators like ladybugs and parasitic wasps.
By using these disease and pest management strategies, you can help ensure the health and vitality of Rhamnus frangula L. var. angustifolia Loud. and enjoy its beauty for years to come.
