Chinese buckthorn
Rhamnus utilis
Family: Rhamnaceae
What it is like
A shrub or small tree. It grows 4-10 m high. Some branches are modified into thorns. The leaves vary in shape and size. They are narrowly oval and 3-12 cm long by 2-5 cm wide. They taper to the tip and are rounded at the base. The flowers are greenish-white or pale yellow.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It grows on grassy slopes below 3,300 m above sea level. It grows in northern China. In Sichuan.
Countries/locations it is found in
Asia, China (country/location of origin), Japan, Korea
How it is used for food
The young shoots are used for tea.
Edible parts
Leaves - tea