Alder Buckthorn
Frangula alnus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
72"–240" H × 48"–144" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
KY
Pollinators
bees, flies
Alder buckthorn is a large deciduous shrub that can reach up to 20 feet tall and 12 feet wide. It produces small greenish flowers from May through July and thrives in partial sun with moderate water needs. This adaptable shrub works well as a screening plant or in naturalized areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Alder Buckthorn takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Invasive species in many areas
- Can spread aggressively
- Large mature size may appear unkempt
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and flies during the long blooming period from late spring through summer. Birds also benefit from the small berries that follow the flowers.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Alder Buckthorn fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.