Pet Safe
moderate Care
alder buckthorn
Frangula alnus 'Asplenifolia'
The alder buckthorn (Frangula alnus 'Asplenifolia') is an amazing plant species to have in your garden. It offers year-round beauty with its lush, evergreen foliage and unique, scalloped leaves that give it an interesting texture. The plant is also low-maintenance and can tolerate any level of sunlight, making it a great choice for novice gardeners. It blooms clusters of white flowers from spring to summer, followed by shiny black fruits which provide food for local wildlife. This unique shrub is also suitable for hedges or screening. Hardy and easy to grow, the alder buckthorn can provide you with a fantastic addition to your garden.
Sunlight
Partial Shade
Water Needs
medium
USDA Hardiness Zones
Zone 2Zone 3Zone 4Zone 5Zone 6Zone 7
Hardiness Map
Green areas show climates worldwide where this plant can grow.
Zone 2Zone 3Zone 4Zone 5Zone 6Zone 7
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Water Every
7-10 days
Sun Needs
partial-shade
Growth
Low
Care Level
Low
Season
Fall
Sep Oct Nov
Winter
Dec Jan Feb
Spring
Mar Apr May
Summer
Jun Jul Aug
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
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Starts Flowering
Starts Flowering
Starts Flowering
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Pruning Time
Flowering
How to Propagate
Cutting
Take 4-6" cuttings in spring, root in water or moist soil
Layering Propagation
Bend stem to soil surface, cover lightly, roots form in 4-6 weeks
Grafting Propagation
Join scion to rootstock, bind securely until healed
Seed Propagation
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost date
Plant Characteristics
Drought Tolerant
Is This Plant Right for You?
Good For:
- •Forgetful waterers
- •Homes with pets
- •Low-maintenance gardens
Consider Carefully:
- •Indoor growing
Bloom Seasons
spring
Care Tips
Light Requirements
Enjoys dappled or limited direct sun—about 2–4 hours of morning or late afternoon light and protection during peak midday sun.
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when top inch of soil is dry.
Best Planting Time
Plant in early spring or fall for best results. Blooms in spring.