Elaeagnus angustifolia aka Russian Olive

Elaeagnus angustifolia, or Russian olive, belongs to the Elaeagnaceae family. Its native range spans southern Europe and much of Asia. It grows as a large shrub or small tree. Its broad crown can become loose and uneven with age. Garden plants reach about 15–26 feet [4.5–8 metres] tall. Some sources report heights of 30–40 feet [9–12 metres]. The spread can reach 26 feet [8 metres].

This fast-growing plant drops its leaves each year. Young shoots have silver scales and may show red tints. Some branches bear thorns, while older stems turn brown. Smooth young bark gains ridges and grooves with age. The simple leaves grow in an alternate pattern. They have narrow blades and smooth edges. Their upper sides range from dull green to gray-green. Silver scales give the undersides a pale sheen. Leaves may stay late into fall but lack bright fall color.

Small, scented, tubular flowers bloom from April through June. Their outer surfaces look silver-white, with yellow tones inside. Leaves can hide much of the flower display. Olive-like fruits ripen from late summer into fall. Each fruit holds one seed within a fleshy outer layer. Silver scales cover the yellowish fruit, which birds eat. People can eat ripe fruit and seeds, raw or cooked. The flesh tastes sweet but feels dry and mealy. Unripe fruit has a harsh, puckering taste. Fruit also suits jelly, sherbet, and cooked dishes. Sources report no known hazards and list it as non-toxic to pets.

Full sun and soil that drains well suit this plant. It tolerates sand, loam, clay, and a broad pH range. It withstands drought, salt spray, and coastal winds. Shallow chalk soils can cause leaves to yellow. North American sources place it in USDA zones 2–7. The RHS gives it a UK rating of H5. It tolerates pruning, though flowers form on older growth. Gardeners have used it for hedges, screens, and coastal planting. Its roots fix nitrogen, and deer tend to avoid it. Flower oil supplies perfume, while its gum serves textile uses.

Its spread poses a greater concern than its care needs. Birds carry seeds, and roots produce suckers. It can crowd out native plants, especially near streams. Several sources flag it as invasive in North America. Canker and verticillium wilt can cause serious harm. Leaf spot, rust, honey fungus, and coral spot also occur. Aphids and elaeagnus sucker are possible pests. Its silver foliage and wildlife value do not remove these risks.