Department Header For Noxious Weed Division
Yellowstone County, Montana
Noxious Weed
Weed Information Contact Department

Common Buckthorn
(Rhamnus cathartica L )

 

Common Buckthorn Seedling
Seedling

Common Buckthorn Leaf
Leaf

Common Buckthorn Thorn
Thorn

Common Buckthorn Bark
Bark

Common Buckthorn Flower
Flower

Common Buckthorn Fruit
Fruit

Photos from Montana Weed Control Association

 

Type

Information

Toxicity

Mild.

Control

Mechanical and herbicide control most effective when tailored to site conditions. Monitoring is crucial. Contact your local County Weed District or local applicator for more information.

Habitat

Occurs in disturbed and undisturbed habitats including roadsides, oil fields, prairies, and a variety of woodlands..

Root

Large, extensive root system

Leaf Shape

Egg-shaped with pointed tips, fine toothed edges

Lifespan

Perennial: two years or longer

Priority 2A Weed

Common in isolated areas of Montana

Similar Looking Plants

Native plum or cherry trees, dogwoods

Important Information

Male and female flowers are borne on separate shrubs. No appreciable predators or diseases feed on this plant to curtail its growth or spread. Buckthorn fruits are widely dispersed by animals.

Information Supplied By Montana Weed Control Association

 


Video Supplied By Montana Weed Control Association