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Overview
Elaeagnus angustifolia, commonly known as Russian Olive or Silver Berry, is a thorny, deciduous shrub or small tree with a distinctive silvery-gray foliage.
It typically grows with a dense, spreading habit and can reach heights of up to 7-10 meters tall.
The very aromatic flowers that are produced in clusters of one to three, are around one centimetre long with a four-lobed creamy yellow calyx.
The flowers appear in early summer and are followed by clusters of fruit that are orange to red coloured and covered in silvery scales.
A cultivar named Elaeagnus angustifolia 'Quicksilver' is the most popular in cultivation.
Soil: Adaptable to a wide range of soil types, including poor, sandy, or alkaline soils.
However, it prefers well-drained soil.
This is a plant that can fix nitrogen with its roots so is prized as a foundation plant on degraded land.
Maintenance: Low maintenance once established. Pruning may be necessary to maintain shape or control size.
Diseases: Generally resistant to pests and diseases, but can sometimes be affected by aphids, scale insects, or fungal diseases such as powdery mildew.
Invasiveness: In some regions, Elaeagnus angustifolia can be invasive, particularly in North America where it displaces native vegetation.
Toxicity: The berries of Elaeagnus angustifolia are edible for humans but may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
Other Species: Other notable species in the Elaeagnus genus include Elaeagnus pungens (Thorny olive), Elaeagnus umbellata (Autumn olive), and Elaeagnus ebbingei (Ebbing's silverberry).
Comments: Culinary: The ripe berries of Elaeagnus angustifolia are edible and can be used to make jams, jellies, and preserves. They have a tart flavor and are rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
Medicinal: In traditional medicine, various parts of the plant have been used to treat ailments such as sore throat, fever, and digestive issues.
The leaves and bark are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
However, caution should be exercised as the plant contains compounds that may have adverse effects in large doses.
Author: Bob Saunders.