Seeds - Sea Buckthorn

For successful seedlings,
see the growing notes at the bottom of the page!

Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) is a small thorny tree that draws attention with its beautiful orange fruits, which grow in abundant clusters throughout the summer until fall. Its narrow, gray-green leaves add a unique touch of silvery colour to the landscape. Generally reaching heights of 2 to 5 metres, this shrub is particularly valued for its hardiness: it easily withstands severe winter cold and copes well with summer droughts. Sea buckthorn is often incorporated into permaculture designs due to its ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen in the soil, enriching the surrounding environment and promoting the growth of other plants. Additionally, its roots develop a dense and deep network, making it a valuable ally in preventing soil erosion, especially in fragile or sloped areas.

Medicinal and Culinary Uses
The fruits of sea buckthorn are an exceptional source of vitamin C, containing much higher levels than citrus. These berries are also rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and E, and essential fatty acids, which give them numerous health benefits. They are often consumed in the form of juice, syrups, or jams, although their tart flavour is also appreciated in desserts and sauces. In herbal medicine, the berries and oil extracted from the seeds are used for their healing, anti-inflammatory, and immune-stimulating properties. Sea buckthorn is also attributed with benefits for skin health and digestion, and it is sometimes used to strengthen the body against infections.

Ecological Role
Sea buckthorn plays an important role in ecosystems due to its nitrogen-fixing capacity, enriching the soil for other plant species and promoting biodiversity. Its flowers, although inconspicuous, attract various pollinators in spring, while its berries provide food for many birds at the end of summer and in the fall. The dense root network of sea buckthorn also plays a fundamental role in soil stabilization, reducing the risk of erosion and improving the resilience of sloped or bare areas. By integrating sea buckthorn into landscaping or ecological restoration projects, one not only contributes to enriching the soil but also creates habitat for local wildlife, while promoting soil stability and sustainability.

Sea buckthorn seeds require cold stratification to ensure germination. See the cultivation notes below for more details.

Akène cannot assume any responsibility for the use of plants for therapeutic purposes. Always seek advice from a professional before using a medicinal or edible plant.