Buckthorn It is a highly resilient, versatile, and valuable shrub, both ornamental and medicinal. This article delves into its botanical characteristics, ecology, distribution, traditional uses, medicinal properties, and, especially, specific care guidelines for enjoying a healthy specimen in the garden or natural setting.
What is sea buckthorn? Names and origins
Sea buckthorn, scientifically known as Rhamnus cathartica, is a shrub or small tree belonging to the Rhamnaceae family. It is known by various common names, such as cervispina, cambrón, carrasquilla, aladierna, aladierno, bañón, burrubiote, cambronero, coscollina and escambrónIt is naturally distributed throughout Europe, Asia, and North Africa, although it is also notable for its presence in America, where it has been introduced and, in specific areas, behaves invasively.
In the Iberian Peninsula, buckthorn appears mainly in the center and north of the territory, never in large concentrations, and prefers well-drained, calcium-rich soils, near the margins of watercourses and areas of medium altitude.
Botanical characteristics of sea buckthorn
- Level: It can reach up to 8 meters, although it usually does not exceed 4 meters.
- Sheets: Simple, deciduous and generally opposite, although in some sections they may alternate. Oval in shape, with a toothed margin and a deep green tone.
- Stems and bark: The trunk and branches have a somewhat twisted and thorny appearance. The bark acquires a dark-blackish tone over the years.
- Flowers: Inconspicuous, yellowish-green in color, arranged in small clusters. They often give off an unpleasant odor.
- Fruits: Round drupes, black when ripe, slightly smaller than a pea. They are fleshy and contain between 2 and 4 seeds.
- Longevity: It is a long-lived species, capable of living for over a hundred years.
Other related species within the genre Rhamnus They include Rhamnus alaternus (goldcrest), Rhamnus frangula and others, with similar characteristics and applications in terms of cultivation and properties.
Ecology and natural habitat
Sea buckthorn is a species that adapts to calcareous, loose and moist soils, although it can tolerate less favorable conditions due to its hardiness. We find it on riverbanks, riverbanks, and stony areas, rarely forming dense groves. It can coexist with trees such as oaks, ash trees, rowan trees or holly treesIt requires a location with direct sunlight or, failing that, light semi-shade, and tolerates temperate temperatures, although it can tolerate some cold if it is not extreme.
During the winter, it is advisable to protect the roots with a layer of dry leaves or straw in areas where intense frost may occur, since its roots may be somewhat sensitive.
Propagation and reproduction of sea buckthorn
It is a kind dioecious, that is, there are both male and female plants. To obtain fruit, it is necessary to have specimens of both sexes in the environment.
- Seed propagation: It is made from ripe fruit, which is harvested in late summer or autumn. It is important to use fresh seeds, as they lose viability over time.
- Propagation by cuttings: Semi-woody cuttings, taken at the end of summer, also make it possible to successfully obtain new specimens.
The best time to plant or transplant sea buckthorn is between late winter and autumn, provided the risk of frost has passed.
Caring for sea buckthorn in the garden
Location: Ideally, sea buckthorn should be planted in a sunny or semi-shaded location. In its final location, it will grow more vigorously the more light it receives.
Floor type: The soil should be permeable, airy, and, if possible, slightly calcareous. However, it is highly adaptable and can grow in poor or stony soils, provided they are not waterlogged or excessively clayey and compact, as excess moisture can encourage the development of weeds. root diseases. For more information on different planting alternatives, you can also consult options at alternative options to grass.
Irrigation: Although it resists periods of moderate drought, it is advisable to maintain a constant humidity without puddlesDuring the first few years after planting, watering should be regular; later, the frequency can be reduced, as the adult plant is resistant.
Subscriber: A single annual fertilization, preferably in spring, is sufficient to keep the plant vigorous. Any organic fertilizer (compost, well-rotted manure, worm castings) or a garden shrub fertilizer can be used.
Pruning: Pruning is primarily done to shape, remove dead or diseased branches, and promote air circulation. It is recommended to do it in late winter or early spring.
Plantation: To plant a specimen, dig a hole at least twice as wide and deep as the root ball. Break up the soil well, mix with a universal potting mix, and place the plant in, covering and compacting the area with the mix. Water thoroughly after planting.
Pests, diseases and common problems
Sea buckthorn is generally hardy, but can be affected by some pests and diseases:
- Rroya: Fungal disease that manifests itself on the leaves.
- Caterpillars and other phytophagous insects: They feed on leaves, especially in spring.
- Other fungi and bacteria: If the soil is poorly drained, root rot may occur.
Prevention consists of avoiding the excess irrigation and moisture buildup. In case of infestation, organic insecticides or fungicides can be used, and in severe cases, pruning and removing damaged parts can be done.
Traditional, ornamental and ecological uses
Sea buckthorn has been highly valued throughout history in both gardening and ethnobotany:
- Natural hedges: Its ability to sprout and its thorny branches make it an excellent choice for forming protective hedges, borders and rockeries.
- Purification and dyes: It has been used as a dye plant, especially for dyeing wool yellow using the root and bark. The fruits can be used to obtain different colors (yellow, green, brown) depending on the tanning agent used.
- Wood: It is dense, hard, and reddish-brown in color. Ideal for marquetry, turning, and the production of high-quality charcoal. It has traditionally been used as fuel and, in gunpowder production, to obtain fine charcoal from buckthorn and buckthorn.
- Food for wildlife: The fruits and flowers are a source of food for birds and other wild animals, promoting environmental biodiversity.
Medicinal properties and warnings
The berries and fruits of the sea buckthorn They are known for their powerful purgative effect due to the presence of anthraquinone glycosides. Their use as a laxative or in anthelmintic treatments (vermifuges) is traditional, but requires extreme caution.
- Properties: Laxative in moderate doses, diuretic and anthelmintic.
- Precautions: In large quantities, the berries are highly purgative and toxic, capable of causing stomach cramps, vomiting, colic, and, in severe cases, intestinal bleeding. They should never be ingested without proper medical supervision.
- Other medicinal uses: In phytotherapy, sea buckthorn extract can be used, under strict professional supervision, for the treatment of occasional constipation and as an aid in the expulsion of intestinal parasites.
- Warning: Information on dosage and medicinal uses should be considered merely indicative. It is always essential to consult a healthcare professional before using any part of the plant.
Differences with sea buckthorn and other related shrubs
It is important not to confuse sea buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica) with the hawthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides), a shrub that produces orange fruits and has numerous medicinal properties. It is especially prized for its high vitamin C content, omega-3, omega-6, omega-9, and rare omega-7 fatty acids, and is also widely used in the cosmetics and food industries.
Ecological impact and legal aspects
In some countries and regions, sea buckthorn is considered Invasive species due to its ability to displace native species and modify ecosystems. Controlling it can be complex, as it easily re-sprouts after pruning or cutting. In areas where its cultivation is restricted, it is essential to consult local regulations to prevent uncontrolled spread.
Responsible management and planned management help conserve biodiversity and take advantage of the benefits of this shrub without risk to the environment.
Sea buckthorn stands out for its resistance, ornamental, ecological and medicinal value. Choosing it for the garden provides a wild and biodiverse note, as long as its properties, needs, and invasive potential are taken into account. With proper care and responsible use, it becomes an excellent natural ally, both decorative and functional.