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Rhamnus purshiana

Cascara

Plant photo of: Rhamnus purshiana
Information by: Portland Nursery        Photographer: Jesse Taylor

 

Description

Described once as looking like alder crossed with a birch with a cherry thrown in, mottled gray bark is topped with deeply-ridged, oval leaves usually dark green on their topside with lighter green underneath. Depending on the amount of sun it's grown in, the fall color can range from yellow to orange-red in the fall. The flowers are small, creamy greenish-white, generally hiding amongst the foliage in small clusters. Butterflies will seek out flowers. The fruit that follows are small, purple-black beads that attract many species of birds. This deciduous shrub can also be grown as a small tree with single-stemmed plants becoming a 30-50' tree if allowed. An attractive Oregon native.

 

Plant Type

Tree, Shrub

Height Range

6-12', 12-25', 25-40'

Width Range

3-6'

Flower Color

Green, Yellow

Flower Season

Spring

Leaf Color

Dark Green

Bark Color

Grey

Fruit Color

Black, Purple

Fruit Season

Summer

Sun

Full, Half

Water

Low

Growth Rate

Fast

Soil Type

Sandy, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular

Soil Condition

Poor, Well-drained, Moist

Soil pH

Neutral

Adverse Factors

n/a

Design Styles

Water Garden, Wild Garden, Woodland

Accenting Features

Specimen

Seasonal Interest

Spring, Summer

Location Uses

Background, Lawn, Patio, Raised Planter, Walls / Fences

Special Uses

Hedge, Screen, Shade Tree

Attracts Wildlife

Butterflies

Water Saving Tip:

Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.