Alderleaf buckthorn facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Alderleaf buckthorn |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Rhamnus
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| Species: |
alnifolia
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The alderleaf buckthorn (scientific name: Rhamnus alnifolia) is a type of flowering plant. It belongs to the buckthorn family. You might also hear it called alder buckthorn.
One interesting thing about this plant is that, unlike many other "buckthorns," it does not have thorns! It grows naturally in North America. You can find it mostly in the southern parts of Canada and the northern parts of the United States. It also grows in California. This plant likes to live in forests.
About the Alderleaf Buckthorn
What it Looks Like
The alderleaf buckthorn is a shrub that spreads out. It usually grows to be about 50 to 150 centimeters (about 1.5 to 5 feet) tall. Sometimes, it can grow up to 2 meters (about 6.5 feet) tall. Its branches are thin and hold leaves that fall off each year (these are called deciduous leaves).
Leaves and Flowers
The leaves of this plant are thin and have deep lines, or veins, on them. They are shaped like an oval and are usually 4.5 to 11 centimeters (about 1.7 to 4.3 inches) long. The tip of each leaf is pointed, and the edges have small teeth.
The flowers are very tiny, only about 1 millimeter (0.04 inches) wide. They grow either alone or in small groups of up to three flowers. These flowers appear where the leaves meet the stem. They have five green parts called sepals, but they do not have any colorful petals.
Fruit and Seeds
After the female flowers bloom, they produce small fruits. These fruits are called drupes. Each drupe is about 6 to 8 millimeters (0.2 to 0.3 inches) wide. Inside each drupe, you will find three seeds. When the fruits are ready, they turn black.
