In the early 1800s, North America planted European buckthorn as an ornamental hedge and windbreak, but scientists now say cutting it down isn't enough; native wildflowers must be planted immediately to stop it from returning

In the first few decades of the nineteenth century, farmers across North America were looking for ways to mark their farmlands and protect them from the elements. The wide-open spaces had some distinct problems, such as strong winds that stripped away topsoil and left these settlements vulnerable to the weather. As a solution, landowners and gardening groups began planting Rhamnus cathartica, also known as European buckthorn.

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