The common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica) is mainly a shrub plant that normally grows up to 10 feet in height, but occasionally can reach 25 feet. It is found from Europe to Western and Central Asia, but avoids mountain altitudes above 5,000 feet. The buckthorn can live over 100 years. The fruit and bark were used in ancient times as a laxative; the fruit was also used to make special dyes.
The wood is hard, heavy, and solid. It is good to work with, but difficult to split. It polishes up wonderfully and achieves a lovely subtle red-brownish tinge. It is for mainly used in turning, furniture making, and furniture restoration.
Dimensions: approx. 120 x 22 x 22 mm, Pen Blank for large fountain pens and rollerballs
Finely grained wood may contain imperfections such as open knots, bark inclusions, or cracks that are typical of the species. These flaws come from the way the tree has grown and are completely natural. They can usually be filled with low-viscosity cyanoacrylate (super glue) and wood dust.
