Beautiful, salt- and wind-tolerant, highly nutritious and easy to grow – it’s no wonder sea buckthorn has become increasingly popular in recent years. Unfortunately, it cannot be grown everywhere, but up to hardiness zone 5 these vitamin-rich coastal plants usually thrive well.

Wild sea buckthorn – a Nordic survivor

Wild sea buckthorn is one of the oldest plants in the Nordic landscape. It established itself after the last Ice Age, as the inland ice gradually retreated. For a time, sea buckthorn was widespread throughout the Nordic region, but as it does not tolerate strong competition from other plants, it has since retreated and is now mainly found along exposed, barren coastlines, both by the Baltic Sea and along large inland lakes.

In gardens, however, sea buckthorn has grown increasingly popular thanks to its low maintenance requirements, ornamental appearance and nutrient-rich orange berries.

Salt-tolerant and incredibly nutritious

Plants adapted to coastal meadows typically have greyish foliage, and sea buckthorn is no exception. On closer inspection, the colour is caused not by the leaf itself, but by tiny protective hairs on the leaf surface. These hairs reflect light, giving the leaves their silvery sheen, while also protecting against dehydration and capturing salt particles from sea winds – an effective adaptation to coastal environments.

Sea buckthorn berries are exceptionally rich in vitamins. In addition to very high levels of vitamin C (often far exceeding that of oranges), they contain vitamins A, B, E, F, K and P, as well as folic acid and several essential minerals. The berries are also rich in antioxidants and contain all essential omega fatty acids, with omega-7 being particularly beneficial for skin, mucous membranes and the immune system.

Wild berries are small and grow tightly attached to very thorny branches, making harvesting difficult. For this reason, active breeding programmes aim to develop thorn-reduced varieties with larger, healthier and easier-to-harvest berries suitable for Nordic climates.

Male and female plants – pollination is essential

Sea buckthorn is dioecious, meaning male and female flowers grow on separate plants. To produce berries, you need both. One male plant is usually sufficient for several female plants, as pollination occurs via wind. For best results, plant the male shrub upwind so pollen can be efficiently carried to the female plants.

Plant shrubs with at least 2–3 metres spacing to allow access for harvesting and proper development. Sea buckthorn can be planted in spring or autumn, but young plants require thorough watering during and shortly after planting. Once established, they are extremely tolerant of drought and salty coastal winds.

Low maintenance and adaptable

Sea buckthorn prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soil (pH 6–7), ideally sandy, well-drained and lime-rich. It thrives in full sun and tolerates exposed locations well. Thanks to its deep root system and nitrogen-fixing ability, it requires only modest fertilisation and can even improve soil fertility. Avoid nitrogen-rich fertilisers; instead use PK fertiliser and lime when needed.

Pruning is minimal: remove damaged or weak branches as required and control size if necessary. Older shrubs can be rejuvenated by carefully shortening some of the oldest branches.

Recommended garden varieties

Growing interest has led to several improved cultivars. One example is the Swedish female variety Hippophae rhamnoides ‘Julia’ E, developed at Balsgård Plant Breeding Station. ‘Julia’ has long, narrow leaves, an attractive bushy habit and produces abundant aromatic orange berries ripening in September. It grows moderately and has fewer thorns than wild types. The male variety ‘Romeo’ E is recommended as a pollinator. Both are hardy in zones 1–5.

Uses and health benefits

Sea buckthorn berries are used in juices, jams, dried products and high-quality oils. Sea buckthorn oil is especially valued in skincare for its high omega-7 content and antioxidant properties. With over 190 bioactive compounds, sea buckthorn is considered one of the most versatile “super berries”, supporting immune function, skin and mucous membranes, and offering protection against oxidative stress.

Care summary

• Plant 2–3 m apart
• Choose sandy, lime-rich, well-drained soil
• Avoid nitrogen fertiliser; use PK fertiliser and lime if needed
• Always plant both male and female plants
• Harvest when ripe, usually in September

Author: Emma Vogiatzi
Fact-checked by: Erik Hoekstra
Last updated: 13 November 2025