Species cascara

cascara

Frangula purshiana ( syn. Rhamnus )

Cascara is a species of flowering shrub native to the Pacific Northwest. It grows to heights of 5 to 7 feet with a spread of 4 to 8 feet. Its leaves are dark green with a wavy margin and a glossy surface. In mid to late summer, cascara produces clusters of small, white flowers. The fruit of the cascara is a shiny, black drupe, which matures during the fall months. While cascara does not require much maintenance, it does need a well-draining soil and adequate sunlight. Cascara is a decorative addition to any garden, and its fruits can be used in beverages and teas.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

7

Flowers:

Not showy, Green-yellow Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Deep shade, Filtered shade, Part sun/part shade

Soil:

Acidic, Humus rich, Well-drained

Fruits:

Fruits In Summer Ready In Fall

Edible:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Maintenance:

Low

Poisonous To Humans:

Yes

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

watering

Cascara should be watered moderately throughout the year. During summer months, provide sufficient water to keep the soil slightly moist, but be sure to never let it become overly soaked. During winter months, reduce the amount of water slightly. To establish a strong root system, water the base of the plant 1 to 2 times per week in the first few months of growth. Watering in the early morning or in the evening is best, so the leaves can dry during the day to prevent disease.

sunlight

Cascara is native to the American Pacific Northwest and prefers full sun or partial shade, so depending on where it is located, the amount of sunlight it receives will vary. In the northern parts of its growing range, it may receive as much as 8-10 hours of direct sunlight daily during the summer months. In more southern regions, it should receive at least 4-6 hours of direct sun daily. It should never be placed in a location where it will be in direct afternoon sun, as this may burn its delicate foliage. In addition to the amount of sunlight, cascara should also receive bright, indirect light throughout the remainder of the day.

pruning

Cascara (Frangula purshiana, syn. Rhamnus) should be pruned during its first 2 or 3 years in the late winter or early spring. Prune off any dead, diseased, or crossing branches, and any branches that are less than 1 inch in diameter, being sure to use sharp clean pruners. After the third year, prune each spring after flowering, removing any dead, diseased, or crossing branches, as well as any weak or spindly branches. Cascara should be pruned hard each year, to produce strong, healthy growth.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

buckthorn The harvesting season for Frangula purshiana (syn. Rhamnus) or cascara buckthorn typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

Frangula purshiana typically begins flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Frangula purshiana typically begins flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Harvest Fruit

buckthorn The harvesting season for Frangula purshiana (syn. Rhamnus) or cascara buckthorn typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map