Mediterranean Buckthorn
Rhamnus alaternus
Family Rhamnaceae
Maltese name Alaternu
Habitat Maquis Afforestation
Large evergreen shrub or small tree.Leaves very variable, but can easily be recognised as the first two secondary veins arise from the base of the main vein. Flowers very small, appearing in winter and developing into bunches of small purplish fruits which turn black.
Grows in maquis, valley bottoms and abandoned fields. Appears to be on the increase, probably due to less grazing by sheep and goats in recent years. Scarce.
