Flowering Months:
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Family:
Elaeagnaceae (Sea Buckthorn)
Maximum Size:
6 metres tall
Habitats:
Beaches, fields, gardens, parks, riversides, roadsides, sand dunes, scrub, sea cliffs, seaside, waterside, woodland.
Sea Buckthorn produces small, inconspicuous yellow-green flowers that appear in early spring, usually around March to May. The flowers are unshowy and lack petals, but they are important early nectar sources for pollinators. The plant is dioecious, meaning male and female flowers grow on separate shrubs. Male flowers are found in clusters and release pollen via wind, while female flowers grow singly along the twigs and develop into berries later in the year.
Fruit:
The most striking feature of Sea Buckthorn is its vivid orange berries, which ripen in late summer to autumn (typically September to October). These small, round berries grow densely along the branches and remain on the plant well into winter. They are exceptionally rich in vitamin C and have a sharp, sour flavour. The berries are prized for their health benefits and are used in juices, jams, sauces, and even skincare products.
Leaves:
The narrow, lance-shaped leaves of Sea Buckthorn are a silvery-green colour with a slight sheen, giving the shrub a distinctive appearance. The silvery underside is due to tiny scales that help the plant conserve moisture in coastal and sandy environments. Leaves grow alternately along the thorny branches, which can form dense, impenetrable thickets, especially on dunes and sea cliffs.
Fragrance:
Sea Buckthorn flowers emit a subtle, honey-like scent, particularly from male plants in spring, though it may not be noticeable unless up close. The leaves and berries themselves have little to no scent. The plant’s value lies more in its visual appeal and health-giving fruit than in fragrance, though the flowers may attract early-season pollinators with their mild aroma.
Other Names:
European Silverberry, Sallowthorn, Sandthorn, Seaberry, Siberian Pineapple, Thorny Elaeagnus.
Summary
Elaeagnus rhamnoides, also known as the thorny elaeagnus or European silverberry, is a species of flowering plant in the family Elaeagnaceae. It is native to Europe and is commonly found in woodlands, along streams, and in other moist, shaded areas. E. rhamnoides is a deciduous shrub that grows to a height of up to 4 meters. It has narrow, dark green leaves and small, fragrant flowers that are followed by silver-colored berries. The plant is valued for its medicinal properties and has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including diarrhea and skin conditions. It is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and is known for its ability to tolerate a wide range of soil conditions.
Blog
Sea Buckthorn (Elaeagnus rhamnoides) is a deciduous shrub native to Asia and Europe, and is commonly found near seashores and in mountainous regions. The shrub has a long history of use in traditional medicine and is considered a superfood due to its numerous health benefits.
One of the most notable features of Sea Buckthorn is its bright orange berries, which are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamins C, E, and K, as well as antioxidants, Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. These nutrients work together to provide numerous health benefits, including boosting immunity, improving skin health, reducing inflammation, and promoting heart health.
In traditional medicine, Sea Buckthorn has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive problems, respiratory issues, and skin conditions. The berries are often made into teas, tinctures, or supplements, and the oil extracted from the seeds is used as a topical treatment for skin wounds and irritations.
In addition to its medicinal benefits, Sea Buckthorn is also a valuable source of food. The berries are often used to make jams, jellies, and syrups, and the leaves can be eaten as a vegetable or used to make tea.
Sea Buckthorn is also highly valued for its ornamental qualities. The shrub has silvery-green leaves and delicate, fragrant flowers, and its bright orange berries provide a striking contrast against the winter landscape.
Sea Buckthorn is also known for its environmental benefits, as it is a hardy and drought-tolerant plant that is capable of growing in harsh conditions. The shrub is often used for soil erosion control, as its deep roots help to anchor the soil and prevent erosion. Additionally, its ability to grow in areas with poor soil quality makes it an ideal choice for rehabilitation projects in degraded areas.
Another great benefit of Sea Buckthorn is its ability to support biodiversity. The shrub is a popular food source for wildlife, including birds and small mammals, and its dense thickets provide valuable habitat for a variety of species. Additionally, its fragrant flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which play an important role in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
When it comes to cultivation, Sea Buckthorn is relatively easy to grow and care for. The shrub is adaptable to a wide range of soils, and can tolerate both salt spray and dry conditions. It is also resistant to pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners and farmers.
In recent years, Sea Buckthorn has gained popularity as a superfood, and its products are now widely available in health food stores and online. The berries can be eaten fresh or used in a variety of recipes, and the oil extracted from the seeds is often added to smoothies, salads, or used as a cooking oil.
In addition to its health benefits, Sea Buckthorn is also known for its versatility. It can be used as a standalone ingredient or as an ingredient in other products, making it a great addition to your diet or personal care routine.
One popular use of Sea Buckthorn is in skin care products, as the oil extracted from the seeds is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fatty acids that can help to nourish and protect the skin. The oil is also commonly used to treat skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea, as it helps to soothe inflammation and promote healing.
The leaves of Sea Buckthorn can also be used for medicinal purposes, as they contain high levels of flavonoids and polyphenols that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The leaves are often made into teas or tinctures, and are used to treat digestive issues, respiratory problems, and cardiovascular disease.
Another great benefit of Sea Buckthorn is that it is easily accessible and sustainable. The shrub is widely available and can be grown in a variety of climates, making it a great choice for those looking to incorporate more natural and locally sourced ingredients into their diet or personal care routine.
In conclusion, Sea Buckthorn is a versatile and valuable plant that provides numerous health benefits and has a wide range of uses. Whether you are looking to improve your diet, enhance your skin care routine, or find a natural remedy for health issues, Sea Buckthorn is definitely worth considering.
Video
Sea Buckthorn filmed in the Wigan area of Lancashire on the 29th August 2022.
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