The alder buckthorn is generally a special plant with many special features. The flowering of the large shrub is also inspiring - this article tells you who and, above all, why, in a nutshell and concisely.
The alder buckthorn usually blooms from May
Properties of buckthorn flowers
Each alder buckthorn bears umbelliferous inflorescences, each consisting of two to ten small, relatively inconspicuous individual flowers. These single flowers are a delicate, greenish-white color. They develop in the leaf axils that previously result from the exceptional buds.
One of the most important characteristics of the flowers of the alder buckthorn is the pronounced abundance of nectar. This naturally attracts bees and other insects in droves.
Extremely long flowering period
Bees and insects benefit not "only" from the large amount of nectar, but also from the extreme length of the flowering period.
Note: Of all native woody plants, the buckthorn blossoms the longest. As a rule, the first flowers appear as early as May, sometimes in June. Then the alder buckthorn constantly forms new flowers over many weeks. This process often continues until the end of August or even into September.
Thus, the alder buckthorn is an important food source for bees and countless other insects for two reasons:
- high nectar content
- extended flowering period
The blossom of the alder buckthorn at a glance
Flower size: 6 to 12 mm
Flower color: greenish-white
Flowering period: late May (early/mid-June) to late August (early/mid-September)
Pollination: by bees, bumblebees, parasitic wasps (€22.99) and beetles
Special features: extremely rich in nectar, important food source for insects
tips
Due to its specific characteristics and the enormous ease of care, the alder buckthorn is also well suited for hedge planting.