The Sea buckthorn normally grows into a sizeable bush, but this selection grows into a small tree (3rd category). The Hippophae salicifolia ‘Robert’ is a capricious, irregularly upright growing tree with an open crown and declining branches. It was discovered in the Arboretum of Kalmthout, Belgium. Named after Mr. Robert de Belder, who was the former owner of the arboretum.

This deciduous tree has elongated leaves that appear willow like (Salix alba), but are somewhat smaller. The upper side is olive to dark green contrasting beautifully with the almost white, silvery underside. Its autumn discoloration is yellow. Old bark is rough and peels off in flakes. Young twigs are brown grey and felt-like. The branches of the sea buckthorn are less thorny than the species. In April/ May Hippophae salicifolia ‘Robert’ starts to flower with unremarkable, yellowish-green flowers. Because ‘Robert’ is a male cultivar it bears no fruit.

Perfect as a maritime tree for exposed costal winds. It thrives in full sun and is resistant to (de-icing) salt. A vigorous winter hardy tree that can endure temperatures up to -30 degrees Celsius and is resistant to heat and drought. Grows well on soils that are dry, low in nutrients (poor) and slightly calcareous.

The Hippophae salicifolia 'Robert' is due to its capricious shape and open and light crown a vigorous tree.