Sideroxylon lycioides, commonly known as buckthorn bully, is a small, deciduous to semi-evergreen tree native to dry upland forests, sandy woods, and scrub areas in the southeastern United States, ranging from Texas to southeastern Virginia. It typically grows to a height of 15-20 feet (4.5-6 meters) with a similar spread, and features a dense, rounded crown. The bark is gray and furrowed, adding textural interest to the landscape. The leaves are narrow, leathery, and dark green, providing a backdrop for the small, inconspicuous white to greenish flowers that bloom in the spring. The fruits are small, round, and turn from green to black as they mature, with a thin layer of edible pulp that is favored by birds.

Buckthorn bully is valued for its adaptability to poor soils and its drought tolerance, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and naturalized areas. It is also used for wildlife habitat restoration and as a buffer plant in riparian zones. In cultivation, it requires minimal maintenance once established and can thrive in full sun to partial shade, with well-drained soils being preferable. While not commonly found in the nursery trade, it can be a unique addition to native plant gardens or used as a specimen in residential landscapes.CC BY-SA 4.0