Buckthorn Bully
Sideroxylon lycioides
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
240"–480" H × 120"–300" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, DE, FL and 12 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Buckthorn bully is a slow-growing native evergreen tree that reaches 20-40 feet tall with a dense, rounded crown. It produces small white flowers in spring and develops into a sturdy, drought-tolerant specimen tree. The glossy dark green leaves and compact growth habit make it an attractive landscape choice.
In an HOA neighborhood
Buckthorn Bully is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The spring flowers attract bees and beetles for pollination. Birds feed on the small black fruits that develop in fall.
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 Buckthorn Bully fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.