Smith's buckthorn

Rhamnus smithii

Smiths buckthorn, Rhamnus smithii, Plant Select
A Southwestern native shrub that has a lovely form, with sturdy, thornless branches and dark green foliage. This plant has been grown at the Upper Colorado Plant Environment Center at Meeker, Colorado, for nearly twenty years. Birds are attracted to the black fruit during the summer. Shrub. Xeriscape.

Tips from the pros: Easy care. Completely xeric once established.
Plant Type Shrub
Height 8-10 feet
Width 8-10 feet
Flowering Season Insignificant
Flower Color Insignificant
Sun Sun
Water Needs Moderate to xeric
USDA Hardiness Zone Zones 4-8
Soil Type Clay, loam, sandy
Deer Resistant Yes
Good for Pollination Yes
Winter Interest No
North American Native Yes
Year Introduced 2002
Annual Commercial Maintenance No maintenance, Can be pruned in spring to shape into a multi stem tree.
5-10 Year Commercial Maintenance Follow annual maintenance. This can be a long lived large shrub if growing conditions are correct. If it needs to be pruned, follow ISA pruning techniques.
Elevation Guide Up to 7500 ft.