Alder buckthorn

Alder buckthorn (Latin: Frangula alnus) is a deciduous shrub or small tree belonging to the Rhamnaceae family. Known for its medicinal properties, this plant has been used for centuries in traditional and modern medicine, primarily focusing on the therapeutic application of its bark for digestive health.

The natural range of the species covers most of Europe, reaching into Western Siberia and parts of North Africa. In its native habitat, it favors damp forests, thickets, and swampy areas. As a crop, it demonstrates high adaptability to various soil types but thrives best in moderately acidic and moist, nutrient-rich environments.

Botanically, it is characterized by smooth dark bark, elliptical leaves with entire margins, and small, inconspicuous greenish-white flowers. Its fruit is a drupe that transitions from red to purple-black when ripe. Unlike some of its relatives, the alder buckthorn does not have thorns on its branches, which distinguishes it from the common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica).

Agricultural practices for this culture include consistent moisture management and proper site selection. While it can tolerate partial shade, fruit and biomass yield are significantly higher in open, sunny locations. Propagation is usually achieved through seeds, which require a cold stratification period to break dormancy, or via vegetative cuttings.

The primary economic use is the production of medicinal preparations used as a laxative. The bark must be collected in the spring and aged for at least one year or heated before being safe for human consumption. Beyond the pharmaceutical industry, the plant is valued for its environmental role in bee-keeping as a honey plant and for its contribution to biodiversity in woodland management.

• Belongs to the Rhamnaceae family.
• Bark must be processed before use to remove toxins.
• Highly resilient to cold climates and frost.
• Important source of nectar for pollinators during early summer.