Dodonaeus Buckthorn
frangula dodonei
Also known as: ["Dodonaeus Buckthorn","Dodonaea Frangula"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to Europe, known for its glossy green leaves and small greenish flowers followed by black berries.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rhamnaceae |
| Genus: | Frangula |
| Botanical Name: | Frangula dodonei |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; must not stay waterlogged.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if rejuvenation is needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct or filtered sunlight daily; adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; monitor for sunburn signs.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid compacting soil; mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged cold.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or layering; softwood cuttings root most reliably.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is present.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading back to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased wood.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts just above buds.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil health.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback; roots are vulnerable to freezing.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid watering before cold snaps.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but infrequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid winter fertilization.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to toxicity from Frangula dodonei, particularly from the berries and seeds, which can cause severe gastrointestinal and systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Frangula dodonei by dogs can lead to significant gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity. The berries and seeds are the most hazardous parts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicFrangula dodonei contains compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects upon ingestion. The berries and seeds are particularly toxic due to their higher concentration of these compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Frangula dodonei toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: What are the common problems with Frangula dodonei?
A: Common issues include leaf spots and wilting.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rhamnaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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