Evergreen buckthorn

Botanical Name	Rhamnus alaternus
Family	Rhamnaceae
Origin	Mediterranean region

Identification

Also known as Italian buckthorn, or as Rhamnus. Evergreen shrub to around 5 m high but often stunted. Shoots angular, hairy and often purple when young. Glossy, leathery leaves often with toothed edges oval to 60mm long. Flowers May - November. Flowers small and green. Berry to 7mm long, broad, ovoid, glossy red, becoming black with stone.

Habitats

Shrub around forest margins and plantations, especially coastal. Becoming a serious weed in some localities.

Impact to Biota and Ecosystems

A serious threat to coastal communities and offshore islands.

Dispersal Routes, Vectors, Infestation Sources

Commencing at a young age, the species produces prolific quantities of bird dispersed seeds.

Management

Management
Physical Control	Early detection and treatment of plants appearing in new locations, will help to contain the problem.
Disposal	Burn pulled material or leave on ground.
Chemical Control	Frill or cut stump treatment with Escort mixed 10 grams per litre of water is effective on trees with trunks less than 500mm in diameter. Overall spraying of small plants is effective using Triclopyr (Grazon). Spraygun 300ml Triclopyr to 100 litres water Knapsack 100ml Triclopyr to 10 litres water
Biological Control
Recommended Approach	Hand pull small plants. Frill or cut and treat larger trees.

Further Comment

This plant is prohibited from propagation, sale and distribution within New Zealand!