Seabuckthorn Seeds (Hippophae rhamnoides)
Light Partial Day Shade OK
Steady Moisture Better, Tolerates Drought Once Established
Fruit bearing (F) @3years
15-20' shrub or more un-pruned
In 12 BC, the ancient Greeks found that after a war, the deserted wounded horses survived miraculously after wandering in a jungle for a long time and even became stronger with glittering fur. The jungle was the Seabuckthorn Jungle, hence the fruit has the botanical name Hippophae Rhamnoides or shiny horse.
According to the ancient Mongolian literatures, horse riders in primitive tribes released their injured horses into the shrubberies of highlands. Some days later, horses living the sea buckthorn berries and leaves became strong and shinning, so the local people called it "The Holy Fruit".It has attracted considerable attention recently in North America mainly for its nutritional and medicinal value.
Propagation from seed is easy and produces a large number of seedlings at a low cost.
Prior to sowing, the seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours, discarding any floating seeds.
For direct seeding, seeds should be covered with very light layer of soil. Irrigate to prevent drying out.
Seeds will start to germinate in approximately 10 days depending on conditions. Your seeds purchased today are pre-cold stratified - no need to refrigerate for 90 days! If direct seeding, plant 3-4 of seeds per planting site at spacing of 3 feet within the row and 3 – 4 feet between rows. Germination range 50-70%
Seabuckthorn grows in most soil types. Boggy areas should be avoided. The nitrogen-fixing quality actually improves the soil it grows in!