Japanese Buckthorn

Rhamnus japonica

Native to:
Japan

📍 View on iNaturalist →

Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Rhamnaceae
Genus:
Rhamnus
Species:
Rhamnus japonica
USDA Symbol:
RHJA8

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Tree
Height:
500 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
Medium
Bloom Months:
may,jun
Bloom Colors:
greenish-yellow
Landscaping Shrub:
Yes

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
birds, small mammals
Fall Color:
yellow

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rich, well-drained loamy soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
consistently moist
Notes:
Prefers forested areas with organic matter

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 60–90 days
Germination Time:
30–60 days
Notes:
Seeds benefit from cold stratification for 60-90 days to break dormancy.