Rhamnus purshianus Cascara sagrada (Rhamnaceae) Evergreen tree

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Rhamnus purshianus
Cascara sagrada
Evergreen tree
(1 Page of 5)

The Rhamnus purshianus plant species is found in Western N. America - British Columbia to California. It is a member of the Rhamnaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Cascara sagrada. Some home gardeners know the variety as Frangula purshiana. (DC.)Cooper.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Rhamnus purshianus
Common Name:  Cascara sagrada
Family:  Rhamnaceae
Author:  DC.

Known Hazards:  There is the suggestion that this species could be mildly poisonous[19, 65].

Mature Height:  10   Mature Width:  6

Habitat:  Rich bottom lands and sides of canyons, usually in coniferous forests[60, 82].

Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[2, 118, 161, 257]. A thin, rather juicy flesh[82]. It is sometimes eaten[183]. There is some debate as to whether the fruit is edible or slightly toxic[226]. The fruit is about 10mm in diameter[200] and contains 2 - 3 small seeds[229]. An extract of the bark, with the bitterness removed (by drying?) is a common flavouring for soft drinks, baked goods and ice cream[183].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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