Family: Rhamnaceae
Author: Nutt.
Bibliography: J.Torrey & A.Gray, Fl. N. Amer. 1: 261 (1838)
Year: 1838
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Rhamnus
Vegetable: False
Observations: California to N. Mexico
Description
Spiny redberry, known scientifically as Rhamnus crocea, is a prominent native shrub found predominantly in the regions of California extending into Northern Mexico. This resilient plant belongs to the Rhamnaceae family, a diverse group known for comprising various species of flowering shrubs and small trees.
First described in 1838 by the esteemed botanists J. Torrey and A. Gray in their seminal work “Flora of North America,” Rhamnus crocea has been widely noted for its distinctive characteristics and ecological importance. The classification was further detailed by the noted botanist Nutt., who contributed significantly to the understanding and documentation of this species.
The spiny redberry is easily identifiable by its petite, glossy green leaves and thorny branches. These features render it not only an aesthetically pleasing plant but also a resilient and adaptive one, capable of thriving across diverse environmental conditions. The shrub’s striking red berries, from which it derives its common name, are not merely decorative; they are an essential food source for various bird species and small mammals, contributing significantly to the local ecosystem.
With its widespread range from California to Northern Mexico, the spiny redberry is a crucial component of the chaparral and coastal sage scrub habitats. Its adaptability allows it to prosper in various soil types, and it is often found in dry, rocky terrains where other vegetation might struggle to survive. This hardiness makes it a valuable plant for soil stabilization and erosion control in these regions.
In addition to its ecological significance, Rhamnus crocea has historically been used by indigenous peoples and early settlers for various medicinal purposes. The berries and leaves were utilized for preparing treatments to alleviate ailments such as digestive issues and skin conditions.
Overall, the spiny redberry (Rhamnus crocea) stands out not only for its striking appearance and hardiness but also for its integral role in maintaining the health and balance of its native habitats. Whether admired for its bright red berries or valued for its practical applications in traditional medicine, this plant continues to capture the interest and appreciation of botanists and nature enthusiasts alike.
Common Names
En: Spiny redberry, Red-berry buckthorn, Hollyleaf buckthorn, Redberry buckthorn
Synonyms
- Endotropis crocea ((Nutt.) Hauenschild)
- Ventia crocea ((Nutt.) Hauenschild)
- Rhamnus crocea subsp. typica (C.B.Wolf)
Distribution
- Arizona (native)
- California (native)
- Mexican Pacific Is. (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- Nevada (native)
- Oregon (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Mar 11, 2022 by genave alborada (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 12, 2022 by Martin Bishop (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 20, 2021 by Büker Daniel (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Feb 1, 2016 by EOL − amyjaeckerjones (cc-by-nc)
Taken Feb 24, 1999 by EOL − Beatrice F. Howitt (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Feb 24, 1999 by EOL − Beatrice F. Howitt (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Nov 12, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Nov 12, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Fruit
Taken Jan 19, 2022 by Shehadi Ramiz (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 7, 2013 by EOL − BJ Stacey (cc-by-nc)
Taken Feb 24, 1999 by EOL − Beatrice F. Howitt (cc-by-nc-sa)
Flower
Taken Jan 19, 2022 by Shehadi Ramiz (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Nov 19, 2013 by EOL − Ximena Gil (cc-by-nc)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:718294-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Rhamnus crocea Nutt.)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3039477)
Specifications
Growth form>: Multiple Stem
Growth habit>: Shrub, Tree
Growth rate>: Slow
Growth
Ph maximum: 8.5
Ph minimum: 6.5
