Cascara is a deciduous Northwest native shrub or small tree. Although it can reach a height of 40 feet, most commonly it is less than 20 feet tall. The alternate leaves are shiny green on top and fuzzy below and fairly large - up to six inches. They tend to cluster at the ends of the branches and are heavily veined with a nearly indented appearance. The flowers are inconspicuous, but mature to an interesting half-inch long "berry" that turns dark purple in autumn.

The bark is a natural laxative and was used in many commercial products, although recently banned.

Cascara does well in sunny to shady conditions and can tolerate somewhat heavy soils. It is suitable for the smaller garden and requires little care.

These trees are three years old and are grown from collected seed.

Size: One gallon
Family: Rhamnaceae
Scientific Name: Frangula purshiana