Description
Latin Name: Hippophae rhamnoides. About the Plant: Dioecious, spiny shrub to small tree. Dioecious means having the male and female reproductive organs borne on separate individuals. We do suggest to plant in groups of three to help assure that both male and female plants will be present. Native to temperate Europe and Asia. All zones. The tree, even when young and bush-like, is excellent in hedgerows and shelterbelts. The fruit juice is loaded with vitamins, amino acids and antioxidants; improves immune response. Oil of seeds is an effective sunblock. Scarify seeds by rubbing vigorously on sandpaper. Germination may be enhanced by scarifying, then sowing in cool temps of fall or early spring–we registered rampant germination in 34 days using this technique. Otherwise give 30 to 60 days of cold, moist refrigeration (put seeds in moist medium in plastic bag and refrigerate, do not freeze), then sow in warm, sandy soil. Germination is in 3 weeks or so–a dependable and fun germinator. Space 10 or more feet apart. Grows to 20 feet tall.
