Catina - Hippophae rhamnoides 'Pollmix' D9 (mascul polenizator)

Hippophae rhamnoides 'Pollmix', also known as the pollinating sea buckthorn 'Pollmix', is a male cultivar of the species Hippophae rhamnoides from the Elaeagnaceae family. This deciduous perennial shrub is valued for its essential role as a pollinator for female sea buckthorn varieties, ensuring abundant fruiting. Native to Eurasia, 'Pollmix' is a popular choice in fruit gardens, orchards, or ornamental landscapes due to its resistance to extreme conditions and vigorous growth. It is ideal for mixed plantings, where one male specimen can pollinate up to 5-7 female plants.

Leaf and Flower Appearance

• Leaves: The leaves are linear, narrow, 3-6 cm long, silver-green, with a smooth texture and entire margins. They are alternately arranged on branches, providing a dense and decorative appearance. The foliage is deciduous, falling in winter, but the bare branches add structural interest.
• Flowers: The flowers are small, yellow-green, grouped in clusters, appearing early spring (March-April). They are inconspicuous but produce abundant pollen, essential for pollinating female varieties. Being a male variety, it does not produce fruit.

Growth Characteristics

• Height and Width: Reaches 3-5 meters in height and 2-3 meters in width, forming an upright, well-branched shrub with a rounded habit.
• Vigor: Rapid, vigorous growth with strong branches and dense development. It is more vigorous than female varieties, ensuring effective pollination.
• Type: Deciduous perennial shrub with deep roots and the ability to fix nitrogen in the soil.

Growing Conditions

• Exposure: Prefers full sun for optimal growth and pollen production. Tolerates partial shade, but flowering is reduced.
• Soil: Grows in well-drained soils, from sandy to clayey, with neutral to alkaline pH (6.5-8.0). Tolerates poor, saline, or arid soils but prefers moist soils.
• Watering: Water regularly in the first year, keeping the soil moist. Once established, it is drought tolerant but benefits from occasional watering during hot periods.
• Temperature: Hardy in zones 3-7 (down to -35°C), suitable for temperate climates, including Romania. Tolerates harsh winters and frosts well.

Care and Resistance

• Resistance: Extremely resistant to cold, drought, poor soils, and urban pollution. Tolerates wind, salt, and alkaline soils, making it ideal for coastal or urban areas. Rarely affected by diseases or pests.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in spring once a year if the soil is poor. Does not require frequent fertilization.
• Pruning: Prune in spring, removing dry or crossed branches to maintain shape and stimulate growth. Tolerates severe pruning for rejuvenation.
• Propagation: Propagated by stem cuttings or dividing clumps in spring.
• Warning: Spiny branches can cause scratches. Leaves and stems are not toxic.

Usage

Sea buckthorn Hippophae rhamnoides 'Pollmix' is ideal as a pollinator in sea buckthorn orchards, fruit gardens, or mixed plantings. Its abundant pollen ensures optimal fruiting of female varieties. It pairs well with other hardy plants, such as native shrubs or perennials. Attracts pollinators, contributing to biodiversity.

Origin

Hippophae rhamnoides is native to Eurasia. The 'Pollmix' cultivar, developed in Germany, is a male variety selected for abundant pollen and resistance, popular in European horticulture.

This sea buckthorn variety requires minimal maintenance (only aesthetic pruning) and is considered "Pest Free," not affected by diseases or pests.

Pot size: 9 cm

Height including pot: approx. 30 cm. Varies depending on the season.

Sold leafless in the cold season. Price is valid for 1 plant in a pot.