About

Rhamnus alaternus 'Argenteovariegata' is a substantial evergreen shrub characterized by its dense, bushy form. The foliage consists of small, leathery, ovate leaves that display a greyish-green hue complemented by creamy-white edges. This variety produces subtle yellow flowers that are followed by small berries, which transition from red to black as they mature.

About the genus

Rhamnus consists of shrubs or trees that can be either deciduous or evergreen, often featuring thorns. The leaves are simple and may exhibit attractive colors in the fall. These plants produce small yellowish flowers, which give way to fruit that is usually black.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Plant type
Shrubs
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
2.5-4 metres
Spread
2.5-4 metres
Time to full height
20-50 years
Suggested uses
Coastal
Toxicity
Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs): Harmful if eaten - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants

Care notes

Cultivation
An easy to grow, vigorous, evergreen shrub. Not reliably hardy and needs some shelter in the colder more exposed areas but is valuable for coastal planting
Pruning
Pruning group 1
Propagation
Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)