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Description
Hippophae Rhamnoides, also known as Sea Buckthorn, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Elaeagnaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia and has been used for its medicinal properties for centuries. The plant is valued for its tart, orange berries that are high in vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids. Hippophae Rhamnoides has a long history of use in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as respiratory problems, digestive issues, and skin problems.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Elaeagnaceae |
| Genus | Hippophae |
Appearance
Hippophae Rhamnoides is a thorny shrub that can grow up to 3 meters in height. It has narrow, silver-green leaves that are about 3-8 cm long. The plant produces small, yellow flowers in the spring that are followed by bright orange berries in the fall. The berries are about 6-9 mm in diameter and are covered in silvery scales. The branches of the plant are also covered in thorns.
Care Guide
Hippophae Rhamnoides is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of soil types as long as they are well-drained. It prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. The plant is drought-resistant but will benefit from regular watering during dry periods. Fertilization is not necessary, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring to encourage growth. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 3-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hippophae Rhamnoides is relatively disease and pest-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. Spider mites can be controlled with neem oil or insecticidal soap, while aphids can be controlled with a strong blast of water or insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Hippophae Rhamnoides is native to Europe and Asia and can be found growing in a variety of habitats such as coastal dunes, riverbanks, and rocky slopes. It is tolerant of salty soils and can grow in areas with high levels of salt spray.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Hippophae Rhamnoides be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Hippophae Rhamnoides can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should Hippophae Rhamnoides be watered?
A: Hippophae Rhamnoides is drought-resistant but will benefit from regular watering during dry periods.
Q: Can Hippophae Rhamnoides be grown from seed?
A: Yes, Hippophae Rhamnoides can be grown from seed, but it can take up to 3 years for the plant to produce berries.
Q: Is Hippophae Rhamnoides deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Hippophae Rhamnoides is deer-resistant.
Related Plants
- Hippophae Salicifolia
- Hippophae Tibetana
- Hippophae Goniocarpa
References
- Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. (2019). Sea Buckthorn. Retrieved from https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com/databases/food,-herbs-supplements/professional.aspx?productid=765
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Hippophae rhamnoides L. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=HIRH
- University of Minnesota Extension. (n.d.). Sea Buckthorn. Retrieved from https://extension.umn.edu/fruit/growing-sea-buckthorn
