Dahurian buckthorn | The Morton Arboretum

Dahurian buckthorn is an exotic weed in Illinois. The Illinois Exotic Weed Act prohibits the sale or distribution of this plant in Illinois. This shrub spreads by seed, and may develop sprouts when cut back manually. It commonly grows in wet areas, such as riparian zones, as well as disturbed areas. It was introduced from Asia, and today can be found throughout the Midwest and Northeast regions of the United States.

Dahurian buckthorn is also an invasive species. An invasive plant is a plant species that is non-native to the location being considered and whose presence and spread negatively impacts (or is likely to impact) ecological, economic or human health. Because of its dense spreading habits, Dahurian buckthorn can quickly create colonies that make it difficult for nearby plants to survive. Once established, these plants restrict the amount of light, nutrients, and space needed for plants in the understory of a forest, reducing biodiversity and habitat availability. Data collected at The Morton Arboretum show that this tree is invasive on the Arboretum grounds.

As an alternative, New Jersey tea (Ceanothus americanus) is a good option. There are a number of native and non-native species that could be used in place of Dahurian buckthorn. More desirable species may be found using the online Search Trees and Plants page of the Arboretum website. Before purchasing or planting, be sure to check for any local or state guidelines on these species, and ensure that the plant is suitable for its habitat by checking its attributes at mortonarb.org or plants.usda.gov.

More Information

Size and Method of Spreading

Dahurian buckthorn can grow from 10 to 30 feet tall. The plant typically grows to the size and shape of a small tree, with the branches growing upwards rather than out. Dahurian buckthorn can also take the form of a shrub.

Bark Color and Texture

The bark of the shrub has deep ridges throughout, with a dark brown color, and thorns along the stems.

Leaf Description

The simple, opposite leaves of Dahurian buckthorn are dark green with distinct curved (arcuate) venation and small teeth along the edge. They have a rounded, oval shape (elliptic) and are about 4 inches in length and 2 inches wide.

Flower Description

The small flowers of Dahurian buckthorn form in axillary clusters. Each flower is light green and has four petals, forming a crosslike (cruciform) shape. Each plant has either male or female flowers (dioecious), but some may produce perfect flowers that have both genders. Flowering time is late spring into early summer.