Plant Guide

Rhamnus alaternus 'Variegata'

• Common Name

  Varigated Italian Buckthorn
• CA Native

  Non-native
• Plant Type

  Shrub
• Size

  6' - 8' x 6' - 8'
• Flower Color

  Greenish-Yellow
• Bloom Time

  • Spring
• Leaves

  Green with White Edge
• Evergreen

  Evergreen
• Deer Resistant

  Seldom Damaged
• Wildlife Value

  • Bees
  • Bird Habitat
• Growth Rate

  Moderate
• Hardiness

  Hardy
• Adverse Growth Factors

  None
• Special Features

  • Low Maintenance
  • Specimen
• Water Use

  • Low
• Soil pH

  6.5-7.5 (neutral)
• Exposure

  • Full Sun
  • Partial Shade
  • Shade
• Soil Type

  Not Particular
• Drainage

  Good Drainage
• Description and Cultural Plant Tips

  Rhamnus alaternus is an upright growing shrub with beautiful varigated green leaves with a white edge. The flower is unremarkable but is followed by a red berrry which turns black in mid-summer. The foliage is used extensively by florists. This shrub can be used as a hedge or screen that goes through both sun and shade as it is adaptable to both. It can also be used as a foundation or a specimen plant in a shrub border. It can be shaped by pruning as well as trained as a tree.

  Plant slightly above soil grade in well-drained location. Add an amendment for faster growth. It also likes calcium in the soil. Water well and add mulch in a 2- 3 foot diameter circle around plant. This shrub does not like to be moved so make sure you have it in the right location. Can be easily shaped through pruning. Takes drought and heat once established. Can be planted where there is summer irrigation. Also withstands strong wind activity.

  This plant is largely free of pests and diseases. However, it can develop fungal diseases if it is in a moist situation with poor drainage.

• Master Gardener Comments

  N / A
• Varietals

  R. alaternus - Fast, dense growth from 12 - 20 feet or more