About
Hippophae salicifolia, the willow-leaved sea buckthorn, is a medium-sized thorny tree to 15 m with narrow, silver-green, willow-like, deciduous leaves turning pale yellow in autumn. It produces inconspicuous spring flowers, and � if a male is also planted � orange berries in autumn. The root system fixes nitrogen, making it useful on poor soils.
About the genus
Hippophae, the sea buckthorns, are deciduous shrubs and small trees with narrow, silvery leaves and inconspicuous spring flowers. Female plants produce abundant, bright-orange berries packed with vitamin C. Both male and female plants must be grown together for a good fruit crop.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs, Trees
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height4-8 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden
Native toNew Zealand
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, well-drained preferably neutral or alkaline soil in full sun or part shade in a sheltered position
PruningPruning group 1 in spring or after flowering but pruning is seldom necessary
PropagationPropagate by seed in a cold frame in autumn; root semi-ripe cuttings in late summer or autumn
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to coral spot, particulary in damp shady sites and honey fungus