About
Elaeagnus angustifolia, Russian olive, is a spreading, deciduous shrub or small tree to 6 m with silvery-scaled shoots and narrow, willow-like leaves � rich green above, silver below. Clusters of small, intensely fragrant, creamy-yellow flowers appear in summer, followed by scaly, silvery-yellow fruits. A handsome, drought-tolerant shrub with an almost Mediterranean character.
About the genus
Elaeagnus are deciduous or evergreen shrubs and small trees with simple, often silvery-scaled leaves and clusters of small, tubular, very fragrant flowers in late spring, summer or autumn, followed by small, juicy, berry-like fruits. Grown as ornamental shrubs and for their exceptionally fragrant flowers.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitSpreading branched, Bushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height4-8 metres
Spread4-8 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toAsia
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrow in well-drained soil in full sun, tolerant of dry soil and coastal winds but may become chlorotic on shallow chalky soils
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings or remove rooted suckers in autumn
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free but may be susceptible to elaeagnus sucker
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus, coral spot or leaf spot (fungal) see leaf damage on woody plants