Mediterranean buckthorn. A slow growing sub shrub growing up to 100 cm tall, found in the Mediterranean region and Southern Europe. It survives even in severely degraded dry lands as a pioneer species. The species is resilient to overgrazing and trampling by livestock. The berries are poisonous to mammals, but not birds. Extremely valuable to small birds for its fruit and as protection and support for their nests. It is suitable for drought tolerant hedging due to its dense, spiny habit and response to being cut or trimmed.

Once established, Rhmanus is very resistant to drought, preferring calcareous soils, but still will grow well in most others. Although buckthorn can be grown on its own it probably best used in conjunction with other species, as part of the woody element of mixed native species planting (typically, Myrtle, Pistacia, Phillyrea, Quercus etc.)