Seabuckthorn

Seabuckthorn is a shrub that grows above the tree line in the Himalayan region. It is found in dry and cold deserts such as those in Ladakh and Spiti. It is locally called chharma in Himachal Pradesh and it produces yellow coloured berries that are rich in carotenoids, vitamins and omega fatty acids. The plant also helps reduce soil erosion. Recently, the HP government decided to develop seabuckthorn plantations in its cold desert areas.