WildBristol.uk - Discovering Wildlife in Bristol

Widespread but local around coasts throughout the UK. Where it does occur it can be completely dominant and prevents much else from growing. It is moving inland due to planted populations spreading. Habitat includes: coastal banks, stabilised sand dunes, banks, Parks (council planted), car parks etc. Growing habit: Deciduous (sometimes Evergreen), Dioecious, rhizomatous Perennial. Height: Up to 4 m. Flowers: March to April on bare wood and fruits in the Autumn. Dispersal methods: Seeds spread by birds. It can also spread vegetatively through rhizomes and layering; causing the formation of dense thickets. It is wind-pollinated.