Hippophae rhamnoides
Sea buckthorn is a true native and suckering shrub that is usually only seen growing in profusion on the edge of sand dunes. It has an extensive root system which is a valuable dune stabiliser. It is dioecious (has separate male and female plants) and seems to have adapted well to the heavy clay soil conditions at Wakelyns, the female bushes producing large quantities of bright orange berries. These fruit, whilst being too sour to consume raw, can be made into various preserves, and has the distinction of containing the highest level of vitamin C, weight for weight, of any fruit. Whilst the suckering habit is not ideal for agroforestry, the roots produce numerous nitrogen-fixing nodules so, with careful management, can be used to advantage.
