Rhamnus alaternus 'Argenteovariegata'
Buckthorn, Italian buckthorn
Also known as Rhamnus alaternus 'Variegata'
- Height × spread
- 5m × 4m
- Position
- Full sun
- Hardiness
- Cold to -15C (RHS H5)
- Flowers
- Autumn
Availability
Please ask in store about availability
Many plants are seasonal. Call 01234 567890 to check current stock.
About this plant
This distinguished, variegated, fast growing shrub has small, slender, grey-green leaves that have a creamy-white, irregular margin. Inconspicuous clusters of yellow or brownish flowers are produced in summer which are followed by black berries. It needs a sunny site to do well and is not suitable for cold, exposed places.
- Flower colour
- Brown, Yellow
- Foliage colour
- Green, White
- Autumn foliage
- Yellow
- Stem colour
- Black
- Fruit colour
- Black
- Variegated
- Yes
- Scent
- No
- Shape
- Cone
- Height
- 5m
- Spread
- 4m
- Height in 10 years
- 3m
- Spread in 10 years
- 2m
- Season of interest
- Autumn
- Flowers in
- Autumn
- Evergreen
- Evergreen
- Garden style
- Seaside garden, Mediterranean garden, Gravel garden
- Sun or shade
- Likes full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam (normal)
- Soil pH
- All types
- Drainage
- Well drained soil, Dry soil
- Hardiness
- Cold to -15C (RHS H5)
- Borders & containers
- Borders
- Use for
- Structural
- Hazards
- Yes, potentially harmful; Humans: Harmful if eaten
Spring
Spring - late · Outdoors
Feed young plants with slow release fertiliser
Spread a slow release fertiliser around the base of the plant to the edge of the foliage spread, so that it can feed the roots. It is helpful for this to be applied for several years.
This is a simple way to provide a nutrient boost until the plant becomes well established.
Spring-Autumn · Outdoors
Water in dry periods
Established plants in the ground can cope with 7-10 days of dryness, and shrubs often manage 2 to 3 weeks. Water one section of the garden thoroughly each day rather than a little everywhere. Check plants in pots more often, especially in hot weather.
Spring-Winter · Planting
Remove dead leaves
Remove dead leaves as they are noticed to keep the plant attractive.
Planting & general
Outdoor planting · Planting
Add root growth stimulant to the planting hole
Mycorrhizal fungi helps roots establish quickly, so they absorb water and nutrients more efficiently. It comes as a powder, granule or gel. Add to the planting hole or container, and to the plant's rootball before planting in the hole. For "bareroot" plants use a gel.