Glossy buckthorn | The Morton Arboretum

Glossy 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, often dispersed by animals after consumption. The plants can also develop runners (stolons) that grow new sprouts. It commonly grows in wet areas such as riparian zones and swamps. It was introduced from Europe as an ornamental, but today can be found throughout the West, Midwest, and Northeast regions of the United States.

Glossy 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, it can quickly create colonies that make it difficult for nearby plants to survive. Once established, this plant can 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, gray dogwood (Cornus racemosa) is a good option. There are a number of native and non-native species that could be used in place of glossy 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

Glossy buckthorn reaches heights between 15 and 20 feet. It typically takes the habit of a shrub, with multiple basal stems. The branches are long and broad spreading.

Bark Color and Texture

The bark is dark brown to gray. The texture is smooth, with small white pores (lenticels) throughout. Thorns are present along the stems.

Leaf Description

The simple, alternate leaves are 1 to 3 inches long and 1 to 2 inches wide. Its smooth oval shape (ovate leaf) has a point at the tip and smooth edges (entire leaf margin). The upper leaf surface is glossy. There is distinct, straight (pinnate) venation.

Flower Description

The small flowers of glossy buckthorn are borne in clusters on short stems (umbel), although some may be solitary. They range in color from greenish-white to white. Each flower typically has five petals. Unlike other buckthorn species, the flowers on this species contain both male and female gender parts (perfect). Flowering time is early summer.

Fruit Description

Fruits are 1⁄4 inch berrylike drupes. They may be solitary or may develop in clusters of two to three. They begin with a greenish-yellow color and turn a bright red and then black color as the fruit matures.