Rhamnus dahurica
Pall.
Dahurian Buckthorn
gbif· cc-by
Moscow State University (copyright is managed by Dr. Alexey P. Seregin)
Description
Rhamnus dahurica is a deciduous Shrub growing to 7 m (23ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower in June, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Edible Uses
Tea. Leaves - cooked. They can be parboiled and eaten. The leaves are a tea substitute.
Medicinal Uses
Miscellany. The fleshy fruit is used as medicine. No more details are given.
Known Hazards
Although no specific mention of toxicity has been found for this species, there is the suggestion that some members of this genus could be mildly poisonous.
Distribution
E. Asia - Siberia to China.
Where It Grows
Coming Soon
Cultivation
An easily grown plant, it succeeds in any reasonably good soil. This species is very closely related to R. cathartica. The species in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus.
Propagation
Seed - best sown in the autumn in a cold frame. Stored seed will require 1 - 2 months cold stratification at about 5° and should be sown as early in the year as possible in a cold frame or outdoor seedbed. Germination is usually good, at least 80% by late spring. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle, and grow them on in the greenhouse or cold frame for their first winter. Plant them out in late spring or early summer of the following year. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a frame. Cuttings of mature wood of the current year's growth, autumn in a frame. Layering in early spring.
Other Uses
Dye Hedge Hedge Miscellany Oil WoodA green dye is obtained from the leaves and branches. A yellow dye can be obtained from the bark and the fruit. A lubricating oil is obtained from the seeds. Plants can be grown as an informal hedge, they are also amenable to trimming. The hard wood can be used to make furniture.
