Safety note: Berries can cause mild toxicity if ingested.
Common Buckthorn is a deciduous shrub or small tree with dark berries and glossy leaves. It is invasive, forming dense thickets that crowd out native species. Its berries are mildly toxic to humans.
Habitat
Found in forests, fields, and along roadsides.
Diet
Its flowers are pollinated by bees and other insects.
How common
Common
Best time to see a Common Buckthorn
The best time to see a Common Buckthorn is May–September, when about 70% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 29,957 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Not certain it is a Common Buckthorn? What plant is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Common Buckthorn sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Common Buckthorn?
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal and know for sure - plus a live map of where it is being spotted near you.
5,300+species
63national parks
50states