Seabuckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) is a cold-hardy, deciduous shrub native to Europe and Asia, celebrated for its clusters of bright orange berries packed with nutrients, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids. This tough, adaptable plant thrives in poor soils and extreme conditions, making it an excellent choice for erosion control, windbreaks, and sustainable landscaping.
The Non-GMO Seabuckthorn produces fragrant yellow flowers in spring followed by abundant berries in late summer. Its silver-green foliage, tolerance to drought and salinity, and high ecological value make it ideal for both ornamental and functional plantings.
Features
- Produces bright orange, vitamin-rich edible berries
- Hardy, drought-tolerant, and cold-resistant
- Non-GMO nitrogen-fixing shrub
- Great for soil improvement and erosion control
- Attracts pollinators and beneficial wildlife
- Perfect for hedgerows, edible landscapes, and reforestation
Specifications
- Scientific Name: Hippophae rhamnoides
- Common Name: Seabuckthorn / Sea Berry / Sandthorn
- Plant Type: Deciduous fruiting shrub
- Growth Height: 6–20 feet
- Spread: 6–12 feet
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 3–8
- Sunlight: Full sun
- Soil Type: Sandy or loamy soil; tolerates poor, alkaline, or saline soils (pH 6.0–8.5)
- Bloom Season: Spring (April–May)
- Fruit Season: Late summer to fall (August–October)
- Flower Color: Yellow
- Fruit Color: Bright orange
- Foliage: Silver-green narrow leaves
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Planting Season: Spring or fall
- Sowing Depth: ¼ inch
- Germination Time: 30–90 days (cold stratification for 60–90 days recommended)
- Watering Needs: Low; drought-tolerant when established
- Maintenance: Prune to maintain shape and encourage berry production
- Pollination: Dioecious (plant one male for every 6–8 female shrubs for fruiting)
- Wildlife Benefits: Provides food and shelter for birds and pollinators
- Uses: Edible landscaping, reforestation, soil stabilization, windbreaks, wildlife habitat
Planting Guide
- Cold Stratify: Refrigerate seeds for 60–90 days before sowing.
- Prepare Soil: Choose full sun location with well-drained, sandy or loamy soil.
- Sow Seeds: Plant ¼ inch deep and keep soil lightly moist.
- Light: Full sunlight ensures best growth and berry yield.
- Watering: Water moderately during establishment; drought-tolerant afterward.
- Spacing: 6–8 feet apart for hedges; 10–12 feet for individual shrubs.
- Care: Prune annually to encourage branching and remove old wood.
