Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides)

[Jaimie Sweetman is part of the Edible Forest located on the Yarra Valley Estate in Dixons Creek. There are regular tours of the Edible Forest – read more and book your place on a future tour.]

Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) is not to be confused with common buckthorn (Rhamnus spp.).

During February, the sea buckthorn looks stunning with its orange berries amongst silver foliage.

We dehydrate the berries and leaves for tea. The berries can also be used in jams and jellies, or frozen and thrown into juices.

Healthwise, sea buckthorn is considered to be a super food and is said to be immune boosting, to help treat diabetes, and to be good for your internal organs such as the liver and heart. It also has anti-ageing properties and the oil is often used in skin care products. Finally, it helps boost collagen levels, which is good for both your skin and your gut health.

Originating from Europe along coastal lines (hence the name), sea buckthorn is dioecious so you do need both a male and a female to produce berries. They can get up to 5m high and are very thorny. Their thorniness means that they can make a living fence to keep out animals like deer, and birds like making their nests in them as they feel safe.

In the right position and garden, sea buckthorn definitely has a place and can become a feature.