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Rhamnus frangula
Glossy buckthorn

Culture: This plant is very adaptable and easy to grow. It tolerates full sun to moderate shade. Birds readily spread the seeds, making the species a weed problem.

No significant insect problems, but a stem canker attacks the cultivar 'Columnaris', causing major branch dieback to the ground. Plants affected with Tubercularia Canker slowly dieback until removal becomes necessary. Soil compaction is a contributing factor. This species also serves as an alternate host for the crown rust disease of oats, making it either illegal (Canada and parts of the U.S.) or unadvisable to grow in areas with significant oat production.

Usage: The species is a weedy plant that invades landscapes. However, two cultivars are commonly used, 'Columnaris' and 'Asplenifolia'; both are interesting. Avoid using the cultivars where escape into native areas is a possibility. The foliage of all selections is quite toxic to horses.

 
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