Sea Buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides)
 
Sea Buckthorn is a hardy, fruiting shrub valued for its bright orange berries, exceptional nutritional profile, and long history of traditional herbal and culinary use. This resilient plant produces clusters of tangy, nutrient-dense berries that have been harvested for centuries across Europe and Asia and is often considered a forgotten yet highly valuable heritage plant.
 
Sea Buckthorn is especially prized for its versatility. The berries are widely used to produce nutrient-rich oils, flavorful juices, and herbal teas. The oil extracted from the berries and seeds has been traditionally valued in cosmetic, culinary, and wellness preparations, while the juice is commonly used in beverages, syrups, and preserves. Dried berries and leaves are often steeped to create traditional teas. Sea Buckthorn is also notable for its naturally occurring fatty acid profile, including unusually high concentrations of omega-9 fatty acids, as well as naturally occurring omega-7 fatty acids, which are rarely found in significant levels in plant sources. This is a nutritional powerhouse and highly cold tolerant plant.
 
Plant Information
Growth Habit: Deciduous, thorny shrub
Height: 6–15 feet
Sun: Full sun required for best fruit production
Soil: Adaptable; thrives in poor, sandy, or well-drained soils
Water: Drought tolerant once established
Both a male and female plant are needed for berry production, be sure to plant a few together
USDA Zones: 3–8
Stratification: Seeds typically benefit from 60–90 days of cold moist stratification before planting to improve germination. Sow seeds in moist growing medium and refrigerate, or fall sow outdoors to allow natural winter conditioning.
 
Sea Buckthorn is also valued in permaculture and restoration plantings because it helps improve soil health through nitrogen fixation.
 
Garden & Homestead Uses
Berry production for oil, juice, and tea preparations
Edible and medicinal heritage plant
Pollinator-supporting shrub
Windbreaks and soil stabilization plantings
 
This is for 100 seeds