Red Berry

Rhamnus croceus

Physical Characteristics

Rhamnus croceus is an evergreen Shrub growing to 4 m (13ft 1in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower in April, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

South-western N. America - California to Arizona, south to Mexico.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw[46, 61, 105, 257]. If eaten in large quantities they can temporarily tinge the skin red[2, 183]. The fruit is about 5 - 6mm in diameter[200] and has a thin dry flesh[82]. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

Although no specific mention of toxicity has been found for this species, there is the suggestion that some members of this genus could be mildly poisonous[65].