Silverberry, Wolfberry, Oleaster
elaeagnus commutata
Also known as: ["Silverberry","Wolfberry","Oleaster"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to North America, known for its silvery foliage and small, edible fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","edible fruits"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Elaeagnaceae |
| Genus: | Elaeagnus |
| Botanical Name: | Elaeagnus commutata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: mixed shrub border or as a specimen plant in a garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"-40–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"2–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter; tolerates poor soils but thrives with amendments.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for shaping or health.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; monitor for sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and weather.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate fertility
pH: Adaptable pH range, but prefers slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for best results.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 2–7; tolerates cold temperatures down to -40°F (-40°C); prefers cool conditions in winter.
Protect from late frost; avoid placing near heat sources; monitor temperature extremes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute liquid fertilizer to half strength; stop fertilizing in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings taken in summer; seeds can also be used but may take longer to germinate.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; plants may take a full season to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags for humidity.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a bud or branch junction; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead wood, and encourage bushier growth; minimal pruning needed for healthy plants.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune dead/damaged wood, shape plant, clean up debris, monitor for regrowth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during dormancy.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes are present.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil mix, ensure good drainage, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound or soil is depleted; typically every 2–3 years for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose new pot, prepare soil mix, inspect roots, prune if necessary, repot carefully, water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season, avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; dieback in prolonged cold without protection; reduced flowering in temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Leaves may drop or turn yellow; growth slows or halts; branches may become brittle in extreme cold.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with burlap in severe winters; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf drop, or scorching; reduced vigor and flowering in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer, apply in spring, avoid late-season feeding, follow package instructions.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, especially in late summer.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicElaeagnus commutata is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause harm to felines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicElaeagnus commutata is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain any known substances that would be harmful to canines if ingested or if they come into contact with the plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicElaeagnus commutata, commonly known as silverberry or wolfberry, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The plant does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Elaeagnus commutata toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is Elaeagnus commutata suitable for cold climates?
A: Yes, it is cold hardy and thrives in colder regions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Elaeagnaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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