How Does Cascara Sagrada Grow?

Cascara sagrada is the Spanish name for a tree that grows on the Pacific Coast from California up to Canada. The name literally means, "Sacred Bark," because the bark contains laxative properties.There is evidence that the bark has been used as a laxative by Native American tribes for more than 1,000 years. The common name for the tree is the American buckthorn.

Geography

• The Cascara sagrada, or American buckthorn, is a native plant in western North America. It can be found as far south as the central California coast and as far inland as western Montana, but it is most commonly found in the Pacific Northwest. The tree likes very wet, acidic soil, so it is often found growing near streams, marshes or in the Olympic rain forest in Washington State. It also thrives in shade, which makes it a common understory plant. The American buckthorn usually grows near alder trees.

Identification

• The Cascara sagrada is the largest species of buckthorn tree. All buckthorns are deciduous trees, which means they shed their leaves every year. It can grow up to 49 feet tall, although it is most commonly found to be the size of a small tree or a large shrub, reaching an average size of 26 feet. The bark is a distinctive, brownish-gray color with a pattern of splotches. The leaves are dark green, shiny and come to a point at either end. The underside of the leaves are fuzzy and pale green. The trees have a brief flowering period with tiny flowers that are barely noticeable. The fruit, however, is more noticeable: Bright red clusters of berries that turn deep purple as the summer progresses.

Conditions

• Cascara sagrada needs moist, acidic soil to grow well. It should be planted in a shady, protected location, away from direct sun and strong winds. The soil should be tested with a pH kit to make sure it is acidic. If not, a fertilizer should be added to the soil before planting. Cascara sagrada trees grow slowly, so it is important to purchase the largest tree you can afford. Once established, the trees need little care because they are hardy and resistant to cold, rot and pests.

Cycle

• In late fall, Cascara sagrada trees shed their leaves, as they are deciduous trees. They do not require care in the winter, as they are quite hardy and can withstand cold temperatures. In the spring, they will grow leaves and have a short flowering period. The flowers are a tiny and grow in clusters. They are pale white or yellowish. The flowers disappear by early summer, dropping off to the ground and being covered by the leaves. During the summer, berries grow. The berries also grow in clusters, starting off bright red and maturing to a deep purple color by September. In the fall, the berries drop off the tree. Each berry contains three seeds.

Germination

• In the wild, Cascara sagrada trees often grow from the seeds dropped or carried by birds or bears, both of whom love to eat the berries. Commercially grown Cascara sagrada trees are usually grown from grafting, however, because the process of growing from a seed takes so long. Landscapers often use them in areas with soil that does not drain well, or near a pond or stream. It is difficult to purchase a Cascara sagrada tree online, as most other species of buckthorn trees are considered pests. However, many garden centers and nurseries in the Pacific Northwest sell them.