Growing Rhamnus frangula (Alder Buckthorn)

Pronunciation: ram'-nus 

Rhamnus frangula Fine Line®, is a non-invasive Buckthorn that is a responsible replacement for its weedy cousins because it does not self-seed. Narrow leaves, deep green and irregularly scalloped, give the shrub an almost ferny texture. Fine Line® forms a tall, dense column, suitable for hedges and large containers, and makes an architectural statement in perennial gardens. Tough, very hardy, with butter-yellow fall foliage and handsome winter bark. Deer resistant.

Light: Full sun or partial shade.

Soil: Well-drained soil.

Watering: The key to getting your new shrub or tree off to a good start is moisture. Water thoroughly after planting, and keep a close eye on the plant over the following week. Then, give it a good soaking once a week during summer, unless rainfall is plentiful (more than 1in per week). Established plants can generally get by on less water, but most grow best if the soil remains evenly moist. Please note that more is not better. When in doubt, don't water.

Fertilizer: We recommend against fertilizing at planting time and during the first growing season in your garden. Plants need time to settle in before being pushed to grow. Most established plants grow best if fertilized with a light hand. Here at the Farm, we fertilize our specimen trees and shrubs just once -- in early spring -- with a light but even coverage of a balanced, granular fertilizer (such 5-10-10, 10-10-10, or an organic fertilizer). If a concentrated, water-soluble fertilizer is used, please follow the manufacturers' recommendations carefully.

Continuing Care: Needs little pruning except to remove dead or broken branches in late fall. No serious disease problems.