Buckthorn is an invasive species that spreads quickly through its roots and berries, overtaking all other native plants. The City encourages residents to remove buckthorn from their own property to maintain and protect the ecological habitat. Residents are now able to check out a buckthorn removal kit available at City Hall. The kit contains supplies for hand removal of buckthorn, including an informational instruction packet, cutting tools, gloves, buckthorn baggies, herbicide dobbers, and an UpRooter (small mechanical tool for pulling plants).
To reserve a time to checkout the buckthorn removal kit, please contact Krista Spreiter, natural resources coordinator.
More About Buckthorn
Common (Rhamus cathartica) and Glossy Buckthorn (Rhamnus frangula L.), like many invasive plants in the U.S., was intentionally planted beginning in the 1800s as a hedge due to its dense, shrub-like growth. It is an aggressive invasive because it can colonize on its own very quickly and does not require soil disturbance like other plants. It grows in a variety of habitats, including both shade and sun. It is also a prolific seeder; its berries often being distributed with the help of birds and other wildlife.
Buckthorn can quickly take over the understory of natural forests and open areas, shading out and eliminating the vegetated ground cover of the forest floor, causing erosion and outcompeting native vegetation.
There are two varieties of Buckthorn: Glossy Buckthorn and Common (European) Buckthorn. Glossy buckthorn has smooth, glossy, toothless leaves that are oval in shape. Leaves are sometimes opposite, but often sub-opposite, and stay green late into the fall. This large shrub or small tree can grow to 25 feet in height, with often multiple stems or trunks at the base. The bark is dark in color, with light-colored spots, and contains thin, sharp thorns. Common buckthorn looks similar except branches contain thorns at the terminal. Both can often be confused with the native Black Cherry tree, so identify carefully before removal. If you are unsure if you have buckthorn on your property, please contact City Staff for a site visit and proper identification.