Russian olive
elaeagnus angustifolia
Also known as: ["Oleaster","Silverberry"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub or small tree native to Asia, known for its silvery-green leaves and edible fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Elaeagnaceae |
| Genus: | Elaeagnus |
| Botanical Name: | Elaeagnus angustifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- 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":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Adaptable to various soils but prefers well-draining loam with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers and fruits.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually over 1–2 weeks. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates. Outdoor placement is ideal for optimal growth.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is best; avoid deep shade; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–14 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Adaptable, but prefers slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–7. Prefers temperatures between 60–80°F (15–27°C). Tolerates winter lows to -30°F (-34°C) and summer highs to 100°F (38°C).
Mulch for winter protection; water during heat waves; acclimate to temperature changes gradually.
Fertilizing
annually in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize once a year in spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; water after fertilizing to distribute nutrients.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or coarse sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot or ground within 1–2 growing seasons.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use fresh cuttings; maintain high humidity; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading cuts to reduce height or encourage bushiness.
Pruning Plan
Prune to shape, remove dead/diseased wood, and encourage airflow. Can be pruned as a hedge or specimen tree.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts; dispose of pruned material.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter if repotting is necessary.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if pot-bound; replant in fresh, well-draining soil with improved drainage.
Suggestions
Not typically required unless grown in containers. Outdoor plants rarely need repotting.
Checklist
Check root bound status; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply until water drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry before the next watering.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; mix in sand or perlite for drainage in heavy soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme heat; dieback or delayed bud break in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Leaves may drop, and growth may slow, but the plant is generally cold-hardy. Prolonged sub-zero temperatures can damage young growth.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter. Protect young plants with burlap screens in exposed locations.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced fruit set in prolonged heat waves.
Solution: Provide temporary shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water after application; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing, as Elaeagnus is not heavy feeder. Reduce or stop fertilizing in late summer/fall.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicElaeagnus angustifolia is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic to cats
Dogs
Non-toxicElaeagnus angustifolia is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic to dogs
Humans
Non-toxicElaeagnus angustifolia is not considered toxic to humans. The plant is often used for ornamental purposes and its fruits are sometimes consumed for their nutritional value.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic to humans
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Russian olive toxic to pets?
A: No, Russian olive is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Elaeagnus angustifolia attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers and fruits.
Q: Is Russian olive drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, it is highly drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Elaeagnaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–14 days during activ |
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