Silverberry
elaeagnus rhamnoides
Also known as: ["Autumn Olive","Glaucous Oleaster"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub with silvery-green foliage and small, edible fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Elaeagnaceae |
| Genus: | Elaeagnus |
| Botanical Name: | Elaeagnus rhamnoides |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden, adaptable to various soil types
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–25–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging, but should retain some moisture for root health.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter (e.g., compost or aged manure) to improve fertility.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning annually; heavy rejuvenation pruning every 2–3 years or as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate for shaping; heavy for rejuvenation if the plant becomes overgrown or sparse.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily) is ideal, though it can tolerate partial shade. Adjust exposure gradually if moving from shade to sun to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants to intense sunlight over 7–10 days to avoid scorching. For indoor placement, provide the brightest possible light; outdoors, ensure protection from harsh midday sun in hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; monitor for signs of sunburn or etiolation.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0) is optimal, though it can tolerate slightly alkaline conditions.
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Thrives in temperatures between 60–85°F (15–29°C). Tolerates cold down to -20°F (-29°C) but prefers moderate warmth during active growth.
Protect from frost in winter; ensure good air circulation in summer; avoid placing near heat sources or drafty windows.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Avoid over-fertilizing, which can burn roots; apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root shock; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings taken in late spring or early summer are most successful. Layering can also be used for larger plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem.
- Cut just below a node.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Insert into medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing and stems are semi-hardwood.
Environment
Maintain high humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F) for optimal rooting.
Medium
A mix of peat moss, perlite, and sand (equal parts) provides good drainage and aeration.
Hormone
Rooting hormone (auxin-based) is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 4–8 weeks; plants may take 6–12 months to establish fully.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, misting bottle, plastic wrap or dome.
Quick Tips
Use stems with visible leaf nodes; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above outward-facing buds; remove crossing or crowded branches; thin out dense growth to improve light penetration.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage air circulation. Light pruning can be done annually to shape; heavier pruning every 2–3 years to rejuvenate.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood first; shape evenly; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins is the ideal time to repot.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes.
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil mix; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water well after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches. Allow excess water to drain freely and avoid wetting foliage to minimize fungal issues. Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Incorporate perlite or coarse sand for drainage; add compost for organic matter; ensure proper aeration by avoiding compacted soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in excessive heat; stunted growth or browning leaves in prolonged cold exposure.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolic processes, reducing nutrient uptake and causing leaf discoloration or dieback in severe cases.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base to insulate roots; move potted plants to sheltered locations; avoid overwatering in cold conditions to prevent frozen root damage.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering or fruiting due to water stress and metabolic disruption.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; increase watering frequency; use reflective mulch to reduce soil temperature.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply at recommended dilution; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth emerges. Apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season (spring to early fall). Reduce or stop fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicElaeagnus rhamnoides is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicElaeagnus rhamnoides is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicElaeagnus rhamnoides is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant does not produce known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Elaeagnus rhamnoides invasive?
A: It can be invasive in some regions due to its ability to spread via seeds, so check local regulations.
Q: Are the fruits of Elaeagnus rhamnoides edible?
A: Yes, the small, reddish fruits are edible and can be used in jams or eaten fresh.
Q: How much sunlight does Elaeagnus rhamnoides require?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade, though it can tolerate some shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Elaeagnaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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