ShrubsHippophae rhamnoides
Sea Buckthorn
Sea Buckthorn is a robust, thorny shrub with narrow, silver-green leaves that lend a distinctive coastal look. In autumn, female plants produce striking orange berries rich in vitamin C that birds love. The plant is exceptionally wind-resistant and tolerates salt spray.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun
- Water
- Low
- Height
- 200–500 cm
- Spread
- 200–400 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 3–7
- Family
- Elaeagnaceae
- Evergreen
- No
- Flower colors
- yellow
- Wildlife value
- birds, bees
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in full sun in well-drained, preferably sandy or chalky soil. Sea Buckthorn tolerates poor soils and sea winds. Plant both male and female specimens for berry production (1 male per 5 females). Once established, the plant needs very little water.
Pruning tips
Prune in late spring to control shape. Remove dead wood and crossing branches. Wear gloves because of the sharp thorns. The plant tolerates hard pruning and regrows vigorously.
Good companions
ShrubsLavandula angustifolia
English Lavender
Lavender is a beloved herb with aromatic silver-green foliage and purple-blue flower spikes. This evergreen plant blooms profusely from June to August and is remarkably drought-tolerant, attracting butterflies and bees to the garden.
ShrubsBuddleja davidii
Butterfly Bush
Butterfly Bush is the ultimate butterfly magnet with long, fragrant flower spikes in purple, pink or white from July to September. The shrub grows quickly and flowers abundantly, even in poor soil. On every warm summer day, dozens of butterflies flock to the honey-sweet blooms.
ShrubsPotentilla fruticosa
Shrubby Cinquefoil
Shrubby cinquefoil is a tireless bloomer producing an endless stream of buttercup-yellow flowers from June to September. This compact shrub is hardy to the coldest zones and makes virtually no demands on the soil. The fine, compound leaflets give the plant an airy appearance. Ideal for low hedges and borders.