California Buckthorn
Rhamnus californica
Last reviewed: July 2026
Rhamnus californica is a drought-tolerant native shrub found in Arizona and California that blooms April through June. This California Buckthorn attracts bees and butterflies while requiring minimal water once established.
California Buckthorn (Rhamnus californica) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
part sun
Water
low
Size
48"–180" H × 48"–120" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AZ, CA
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Buckthorn is an attractive evergreen shrub with glossy oval leaves and small white flowers in spring. It produces red berries that mature to black in fall, creating year-round visual interest. This drought-tolerant native adapts well to various garden settings.
Growing California Buckthorn
Grow California Buckthorn in part sun and low water. Mature plants reach 48 to 180 inches tall and spread 48 to 120 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
California Buckthorn is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Can get leggy without occasional pruning
Wildlife value
Host plant for pale swallowtail butterfly, echo blue butterfly.
This shrub supports local ecosystems by attracting bees and butterflies during its spring bloom period. The berries provide important food for birds and other wildlife in fall and winter.
Common questions
- When does California Buckthorn bloom?
- Rhamnus californica typically blooms from April through June, producing small clusters of greenish-white flowers that attract pollinators.
- What pollinators visit California Buckthorn?
- California Buckthorn attracts various bees and butterflies with its spring flowers, making it valuable for supporting native pollinator populations.
- Where is Rhamnus californica native?
- California Buckthorn is native to Arizona and California, where it grows naturally in chaparral, oak woodlands, and dry slopes.
- How much water does California Buckthorn need?
- Once established, Rhamnus californica is very drought tolerant and thrives with minimal supplemental watering in most climates.
- Is California Buckthorn toxic to dogs?
- California Buckthorn is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is California Buckthorn toxic to cats?
- California Buckthorn is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is California Buckthorn HOA-friendly?
- California Buckthorn is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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.
Ready to grow California Buckthorn? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz