About
This bushy, spreading, deciduous shrub about 3-4m high, the linear dark green leaves, turning red in autumn, have irregularly scalloped edges, give a feathery, fern-like appearance. Clusters of greenish flowers are produced in the leaf axils in late spring and early summer followed by fleshy red fruit, ripening to black.
About the genus
Frangula can be deciduous or evergreen shrubs or trees, with simple leaves that often colour well in autumn, and tiny yellowish flowers followed by red or black fruit
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
ToxicityHumans/Pets (dogs): Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist but well-drained soil in sun or part shade. Flowers are attractive to bees and brimstone butterflies. Suitable for hedging, wild or woodland gardens
PruningMinimal pruning required, see pruning group 1; trim hedges in early spring
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings in early summer, or by layering in autumn or spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free