shrub

Fine Line Buckthorn

Rhamnus frangula 'Ron Williams'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

84 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Medium

Native To

Europe, Western Asia, North Africa

Toxicity

Berries are mildly toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Frangula alnus, or alder buckthorn, is a deciduous shrub or small tree known for its adaptability and simple, glossy leaves. The species can be invasive in some regions due to prolific fruiting. The 'Ron Williams' cultivar, marketed as Fine Line®, is a sterile, non-invasive variety with a unique, narrow, columnar habit and finely textured, fern-like foliage, offering a striking vertical accent.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Fine Line® Buckthorn is prized for its unique, fine-textured foliage and strong vertical form, which creates a dramatic architectural statement in the landscape. It provides three-season interest with its lush summer green and yellow fall color, fitting perfectly into narrow spaces where other shrubs would fail.

Its narrow, upright habit makes it an ideal choice for creating privacy screens or hedges in small urban gardens, courtyards, or along property lines without taking up significant lateral space. It can also be used as a striking vertical element in large container plantings.

While the species is invasive, this sterile cultivar offers a safe alternative. Its flowers provide a nectar source for pollinators, and its dense structure can offer shelter for small birds. It is a problem-solving plant for challenging, narrow garden sites.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a location with at least 4-6 hours of sun daily.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the container and just as deep.
Gently remove the plant and loosen any circling roots.
Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the crown is at soil level.
Backfill with native soil and water thoroughly to settle.
Apply a layer of mulch around the base, avoiding the stem.

Pro Tip

Its columnar shape rarely needs pruning, making it an excellent low-maintenance choice for narrow garden beds or creating a 'green wall'.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent water during the first year to establish roots.
Plant in a location with good air circulation.
Monitor for any reversion to the larger leaf type of the species and prune it out.

Don't

Do not plant in waterlogged or consistently wet soil.
Avoid heavy fertilization, which can lead to weak growth.
Don't plant the invasive species form, Frangula alnus.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Elegant vertical accent for tight spacesTextural narrow hedge or privacy screenDramatic 'thriller' in container gardens

Companion Plants

Hydrangea paniculata 'Limelight' Spiraea japonica 'Goldmound' Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln' Heuchera 'Palace Purple' Sedum 'Autumn Joy'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Fine Line Buckthorn questions

What zones can Fine Line Buckthorn grow in?

Fine Line Buckthorn is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Fine Line Buckthorn deer resistant?

Yes — Fine Line Buckthorn is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Fine Line Buckthorn bloom?

Fine Line Buckthorn typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Fine Line Buckthorn need full sun?

Fine Line Buckthorn does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Fine Line Buckthorn drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Fine Line Buckthorn handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.