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Hippophae rhamnoides Sea buckthorn Deciduous shrub (1 Page of 5) The Hippophae rhamnoides plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Elaeagnaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Sea buckthorn. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Hippophae rhamnoides Common Name: Sea buckthorn Family: Elaeagnaceae Author: L. Known Hazards: Some reports suggest that the fruit is poisonous[13, 100], whilst it may be very acid it is most definitely not poisonous[65]. Mature Height: 6 Mature Width: 2.5 Habitat: Usually found near the coast, often forming thickets on fixed dunes and sea cliffs[9, 17, 244].
Cultivation Notes: Succeeds in most soils[200], including poor ones[186], so long as they are not too dry[182, 200]. Grows well by water and in fairly wet soils[182]. Established plants are very drought resistant[186]. Requires a sunny position[3], seedlings failing to grow in a shady position and mature shrubs quickly dying if overshadowed by taller plants[186]. Does well in very sandy soils[1, 186]. Very tolerant of maritime exposure[75]. Plants are fairly slow growing[75].
Although usually found near the coast in the wild, they thrive when grown inland[11] and are hardy to about -25°c[184].
A very ornamental plant[1, 11], it is occasionally cultivated, especially in N. Europe, for its edible fruit, there are some named varieties[183]. 'Leikora' is a free-fruiting form, developed for its ornamental value.
Members of this genus are attracting considerable interest from breeding institutes for their nutrient-rich fruits that can promote the general health of the body (see edible and medicinal uses below)[214].
This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria, these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby[113, 186, 200]. Plants produce abundant suckers, especially when grown on sandy soils[186].
Dioecious. Male and female plants must be grown if seed is required. The sexes of plants cannot be distinguished before flowering, but on flowering plants the buds of male plants in winter are conical and conspicuous whilst female buds are smaller and rounded[11].
Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus[200].
For further Hippophae rhamnoides gardening information click on one of the blue links below Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses
The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'. View their bibliography

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