The Buckthorn problem

Buckthorn are invasive shrubs or small trees. Two species are found in Minnesota: Common Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica) and Glossy Buckthorn (Frangula alnus). Common Buckthorn is the species most often encountered on suburban properties.

Brought from Europe for hedges, buckthorn spread, forming dense thickets in forests and elsewhere. This highly invasive plant displaces native shrubs and small trees, destroying habitat for songbirds and other wildlife.

Management guide

Download the full four-page guide below.

Native Plants to Install After Buckthorn Removal

Some native plants will come back naturally after you remove buckthorn. But for the best chance at competing against buckthorn, researchers from the University of Minnesota recommend planting/seeding a combination of native grasses, wildflowers, trees, and shrubs. Click below to read a research summary:

Recommendations

• Native cool season grasses that establish quickly from seed and reduce light available for buckthorn seedlings. Seed is inexpensive and establishes quickly.
  • Recommended species: Canada Wild Rye (Elymus canadensis), Bottlebrush Grass (Elymus hystrix), Virginia Wild Rye (Elymus virginicus), and Silky Wild Rye (Elymus villosus)
• Native wildflowers take some time to establish but are more shade tolerant that grasses and will eventually compete against buckthorn. Use a native wildflower mix (look for mixes designed to compete against buckthorn) or plant plugs for quicker establishment.
  • Recommended species: White Snakeroot (Ageratina altissima), Virginia Waterleaf (Hydrophyllum virginianum), Tall Meadow Rue (Thalictrum dasycarpum), Red Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis), Brown-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia triloba), Lance-leaf Figwort (Scrophularia lanceolata)
• Native trees and shrubs that compete strongly against buckthorn. Species that hold onto their leaves late into autumn are most competitive. Consider caging/fencing off saplings to protect them from rabbits and deer.
  • Recommended species: Red Elderberry (Sambucus racemosa), Black Cherry (Prunus serotina), Sugar Maple (Acer saccarum), Nannyberry (Viburnum lentago), and dogwoods (Cornus spp.)

Visit City buckthorn programs & information for resources available from cities within the watershed district.