California buckthorn (Frangula californica, Gen. Amer. Bor. 2: 178 (1849))

Family: Rhamnaceae

Author: (Eschsch.) A.Gray

Bibliography: Gen. Amer. Bor. 2: 178 (1849)

Year: 1849

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Frangula

Vegetable: False

Observations: W. U.S.A. to N. Mexico

Description

California buckthorn, scientifically known as Frangula californica, is a notable plant species indigenous to the western regions of the United States and extending southward into northern Mexico. This resilient species thrives predominantly in chaparral, woodlands, and coastal scrub environments, where it adapts to a variety of soil types and climatic conditions.

With a botanical history that traces back to 1849, as documented in “Gen. Amer. Bor.,” California buckthorn was classified by the notable botanist (Eschsch.) A.Gray. Its inclusion in the Rhamnaceae family places it among a diverse group of plants often recognized for their ecological significance as well as their medicinal and horticultural uses.

The plant typically exhibits a robust, shrubby form, making it an excellent choice for natural landscaping and habitat restoration projects. It features glossy, dark green leaves that provide a striking contrast to its small, inconspicuous flowers. These blossoms eventually give way to dark, berry-like drupes that serve as a valuable food source for various bird species and other wildlife.

Beyond its aesthetic and ecological contributions, California buckthorn also plays a crucial role in soil stabilization and water conservation. Its deep root system helps to prevent erosion, while its drought-tolerant nature ensures that it can survive and even thrive in arid environments where other plants may struggle.

For those interested in native plant gardening, Frangula californica offers an array of benefits. Its low maintenance requirements, coupled with its ability to attract local fauna, make it an excellent addition to sustainable landscaping efforts. Moreover, its resilience against pests and diseases underscores its suitability for environmentally conscious gardeners seeking to foster a diverse and healthy ecosystem in their own backyards.

In summary, California buckthorn stands out as a remarkable plant both for its adaptability and its contribution to the biodiversity of the regions it inhabits. As a member of the Rhamnaceae family, it holds a respected place in the pantheon of North American flora and continues to be a valuable asset to both natural and cultivated landscapes.

Common Names

Eng: california buckthorn, california coffeeberry
En: California buckthorn, California coffeeberry

Synonyms

• Rhamnus purshiana var. californica ((Eschsch.) Rehder)
• Rhamnus californica (Eschsch.)
• Rhamnus californica subsp. typica (C.B.Wolf)

Distribution

• Arizona (native)
• California (native)
• Mexico Northeast (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)
• Nevada (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• Oregon (native)
• Hawaii (introduced)

Additional Images

Fruit

Taken Jul 1, 1992 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)

Taken Oct 27, 2022 by Liz Pucket (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 1, 2022 by Johnny Poppyseed (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken May 28, 2022 by Johnny Poppyseed (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 1, 2022 by Johnny Poppyseed (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 13, 2022 by Luci fuhr (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken May 28, 2022 by Johnny Poppyseed (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 1, 2022 by Johnny Poppyseed (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3039459)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:717357-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Frangula californica (Eschsch.) A.Gray)

Specifications

Growth habit: Tree, Shrub

Growth