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.
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.
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.
Spot a Common Buckthorn? Identify it instantly.
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal for an instant ID, its rarity, and a live map of where it is being seen near you.
Get HuckGet an alert when a Common Buckthorn is spotted
Pick a park, state, or city and we’ll email you when one turns up there. One check a day, only when there’s something new.
Free. Unsubscribe from any email. See our Privacy Policy.
Love plants? Get Huck field notes
Spotting tips, new species, and the best of what people are finding in the wild - straight to your inbox.