This non-native plant has become a weedy nuisance in woodlands and fence rows, competing with more desirable native trees and shrubs. It also serves as an alternate host for oat crown rust. We no longer recommend planting it. In the past, Common Buckthorn was more widely planted for formal hedges. It is now more commonly encountered as a wild plant.
Birds spread the seeds after eating the often abundant fruits.
If you see seedlings coming up, remove them promptly. Common Buckthorn is often confused with certain wild cherries and plums. The following illustration and descriptive notes should aid in distinguishing them. Common Buckthorn Buckthorn twigs are tipped with a short, sharp thorn. The buds are slightly curved and pressed to the stem.