Autumn Olive
elaeagnus umbellata
Also known as: ["Japanese Silverberry","Spreading Oleaster"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to Asia, known for its silvery-green leaves and edible red berries that ripen in autumn.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","fast growing"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Elaeagnaceae |
| Genus: | Elaeagnus |
| Botanical Name: | Elaeagnus umbellata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- 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: Moderate to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Adaptable to various soils but prefers well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates some shade but produces more fruit in full sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching. Place in a location with morning sun and afternoon partial shade in hot climates. Outdoor placement is ideal for fruit production.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Full sun boosts fruit yield; partial shade acceptable; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, ensure good drainage, and avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam
pH: Adaptable pH range (5.5–7.5), but prefers slightly acidic to neutral conditions.
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; adjust pH if necessary.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–8. Prefers temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C) but can tolerate winter lows to -20°F (-29°C) and summer highs above 90°F (32°C).
Protect from frost when young; water deeply in heat; mulch to buffer temperature extremes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize once a year in spring; use a balanced formula; avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early 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 semi-hardened.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining medium like perlite and peat moss mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; plants can be transplanted after one growing season.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use softwood cuttings; maintain high humidity; keep warm and out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to remove entire branches back to the trunk or main stems; heading cuts to shorten branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to shape the plant, improve air circulation, and encourage fruit production. Remove dead or crossing branches annually.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/diseased wood; thin crowded branches; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late winter or early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter for container-grown plants.
Method
Use well-draining soil mix; gently tease out circling roots; place in a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter.
Suggestions
Not typically required unless grown in containers. In-ground plants rarely need repotting.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
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, focusing on the root zone. Apply water slowly and deeply to encourage deep root growth, ensuring excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during the growing season, reducing frequency in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture; allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and structure; incorporate sand or perlite for drainage if needed.
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 or turn yellow; growth may slow or stop. Young plants are more susceptible to frost damage than established ones.
Solution: Plant in a sheltered location; use mulch to insulate roots; protect young plants with frost cloth in severe cold.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced fruit set due to excessive heat and drought stress.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water after application; avoid excess.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth begins. Avoid over-fertilizing, especially nitrogen-heavy formulas, which can reduce fruit production.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicElaeagnus umbellata is not considered toxic to cats. The fruits are safe for consumption in moderation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicElaeagnus umbellata is not considered toxic to dogs. The fruits are safe for consumption in moderation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicElaeagnus umbellata, commonly known as autumn olive, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The fruits are edible and have been used in traditional cuisine.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the fruit of Autumn Olive edible?
A: Yes, the red berries are edible and often used in jams, jellies, and other culinary applications.
Q: Does Autumn Olive require much maintenance?
A: No, it is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in various soil conditions and is drought-tolerant.
Q: Does Autumn Olive attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers and berries.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Elaeagnaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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