The Mighty Tall Hedge Buckthorn: A Comprehensive Guide

Oleh Patsy Davis June 10, 2023 Post a Comment

Are you looking for an attractive and robust hedge plant for your garden? Look no further than the tall hedge buckthorn! This versatile shrub is perfect for creating a natural fence or privacy screen. In this article, we'll explore all that this amazing plant has to offer.

What is Tall Hedge Buckthorn?

Tall hedge buckthorn (Rhamnus frangula 'Asplenifolia') is a deciduous shrub native to Europe and Asia. It is also known as fernleaf buckthorn due to its finely divided leaves that resemble ferns. The plant grows up to 20 feet tall and 10 feet wide, making it an ideal candidate for hedges, screens, and windbreaks.

Planting Tips

Tall hedge buckthorn is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun but can tolerate some shade. The best time to plant this shrub is in the spring or fall. Make sure to space them at least 3 feet apart to allow room for growth.

When planting, dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Gently tease out any circling roots and place the plant in the hole. Backfill with soil and water thoroughly. Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Care and Maintenance

Once established, tall hedge buckthorn requires minimal care. Water deeply once a week during dry spells and fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain the desired shape and height. Remove any dead or damaged branches and thin out overly dense areas to improve air circulation.

Pests and Diseases

Tall hedge buckthorn is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to leaf spot, rust, and powdery mildew if grown in damp conditions. To prevent these issues, plant in a well-draining soil and avoid overhead watering.

Benefits of Tall Hedge Buckthorn

Tall hedge buckthorn has many benefits beyond its ornamental value. It provides food and shelter for birds and other wildlife. Its leaves and bark contain compounds that have been used for medicinal purposes, including treating constipation and liver disorders. It is also an important component of traditional Chinese medicine.

Other Uses of Tall Hedge Buckthorn

In addition to its use as a hedge plant, tall hedge buckthorn has other practical applications. Its wood is hard and durable, making it suitable for tool handles, walking sticks, and furniture. The bark contains tannins that can be used to tan leather and make dyes.

Landscaping Ideas

Tall hedge buckthorn can be used in a variety of landscaping designs. It can be planted as a single specimen or in groups to create informal hedges or screens. It pairs well with other shrubs such as boxwood, hydrangea, and viburnum. It can also be shaped into topiary forms for added visual interest.

Culinary Uses

While not commonly consumed, tall hedge buckthorn berries are edible and have a slightly bitter flavor. They can be used to make jams, jellies, and syrups. However, they should be eaten in moderation as they contain a compound called emodin that can cause gastrointestinal distress in large quantities.

Environmental Impact

Tall hedge buckthorn is considered invasive in some areas of North America, including parts of the United States and Canada. It has the potential to outcompete native plants and disrupt ecosystems. As such, it is important to check with your local authorities before planting tall hedge buckthorn in your area.

Tall hedge buckthorn is a versatile and attractive plant that has many uses beyond its ornamental value. Whether you're looking to create a natural fence or add some visual interest to your garden, this shrub is sure to impress. With minimal care, it can thrive for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is tall hedge buckthorn poisonous?

The leaves and bark of tall hedge buckthorn contain compounds that can be toxic if ingested in large quantities. While it is not typically consumed by humans, it is important to keep the plant away from children and pets.

2. How fast does tall hedge buckthorn grow?

Tall hedge buckthorn can grow up to 1-2 feet per year under ideal conditions. However, growth rates may vary depending on factors such as soil type, sun exposure, and pruning.

3. Can tall hedge buckthorn tolerate shade?

While tall hedge buckthorn prefers full sun, it can tolerate some shade. However, too much shade can result in reduced growth and density.

4. Does tall hedge buckthorn require pruning?

Tall hedge buckthorn benefits from annual pruning to maintain its shape and height. Pruning should be in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

5. What are some companion plants for tall hedge buckthorn?

Tall hedge buckthorn pairs well with other shrubs such as boxwood, hydrangea, and viburnum. It also makes an excellent backdrop for perennials such as daylilies and black-eyed Susans.

6. Can tall hedge buckthorn be grown in containers?

While tall hedge buckthorn can be grown in containers, it is not ideal. The plant's large size and deep root system make it difficult to maintain in a container for an extended period.

7. How do I propagate tall hedge buckthorn?

Tall hedge buckthorn can be propagated by seed or cuttings. Softwood cuttings should be taken in the early summer, while hardwood cuttings should be taken in the late fall or winter.

8. What are some common pests of tall hedge buckthorn?

Tall hedge buckthorn is relatively pest-free. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and aphids in some cases.

9. How do I control the spread of tall hedge buckthorn?

To prevent the spread of tall hedge buckthorn, it is important to remove any seedlings that appear around the base of the plant. It is also recommended to plant only non-invasive varieties of tall hedge buckthorn.

10. Is tall hedge buckthorn a good choice for erosion control?

Due to its deep root system and ability to tolerate a variety of soil types, tall hedge buckthorn can be an effective choice for erosion control on slopes and hillsides.