Alder buckthorn

Frangula alnus

Height 6 m, bole up to 20 cm diameter. Deciduous shrub or small tree with rounded crown with several stems and bark that is dark-brown, showing yellow beneath if cut. Leaves are oval, tapered, with wavy margins, 3-7 x 2.5-4 cm.

What habitats does it normally live in?

Central and northern Europe, including Britain. Hedgerows and understorey in moist woodland.

What are its young like?

Small clusters. Flowers are formed in leaf axils. Fruit is globe-shaped, ripening to purple, 6-10 mm.

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