Sea berry shrub tapped as drought-tolerant plant

A relatively unknown shrub has great potential as an ornamental plant for New Mexico, as well as berries known for their high antioxidant and vitamin-packed juice. Researchers at the New Mexico State University Agricultural Science Center in Los Lunas, N.M, have been trialing the sea berry shrub. This drought-tolerant plant grows up to 10 feet high and features silver foliage and orange fruit. So far, researchers have not found any pest problems associated with the crop. “This plant is grown extensively in Europe and Russia where the people blend the slightly tart berries with other juices for a very desirable flavor,” said Ron Walser, NMSU Extension fruit specialist.