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Description
Elaeagnus Commutata, commonly known as silverberry or wolf-willow, is a deciduous shrub native to North America. This plant can grow up to 10 feet tall and wide, with a sprawling, irregular growth habit. Its leaves are silvery-gray on the top surface and brownish on the bottom, with a wavy margin. The fragrant flowers are small, creamy white, and bloom in late spring. The fruit is an edible, red drupe with a sweet-tart flavor that ripens in late summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Elaeagnaceae |
| Genus | Elaeagnus |
Appearance
Elaeagnus Commutata has a unique appearance that makes it stand out in any garden. Its leaves are silvery-gray on the top surface and brownish on the bottom, with a wavy margin. The shrub has a sprawling, irregular growth habit and can grow up to 10 feet tall and wide. The fragrant flowers are small, creamy white, and bloom in late spring. The fruit is an edible, red drupe with a sweet-tart flavor that ripens in late summer.
Care Guide
Elaeagnus Commutata is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to ensure its optimal growth:- Water: Water deeply once a week during the growing season, and less frequently in winter.- Fertilization: Fertilize once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5.- Sunlight: Plant in full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Elaeagnus Commutata is hardy in USDA zones 2-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Elaeagnus Commutata is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common problems:- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause leaf yellowing and stippling. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.- Scale insects: These pests can cause leaf yellowing and wilting. Use horticultural oil to control them.- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. Improve drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent it.
Habitat
Elaeagnus Commutata is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including dry slopes, rocky outcrops, and forest edges. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil types and can grow in full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Elaeagnus Commutata deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Elaeagnus Commutata is deer-resistant due to its thorny branches and bitter-tasting leaves.
Q: Can Elaeagnus Commutata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Elaeagnus Commutata can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its size and the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should I prune Elaeagnus Commutata?
A: You can prune Elaeagnus Commutata in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and size. Remove any dead or damaged branches, and prune back up to one-third of the plant’s growth if necessary.
Q: How fast does Elaeagnus Commutata grow?
A: Elaeagnus Commutata grows at a moderate rate of 12-24 inches per year.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Elaeagnus Commutata:- Elaeagnus Angustifolia- Elaeagnus Ebbingei- Elaeagnus Umbellata- Elaeagnus Pungens
References
– USDA Plants Database: Elaeagnus Commutata– Missouri Botanical Garden: Elaeagnus Commutata– Gardening Know How: Silverberry Plant Care – How To Grow Elaeagnus Commutata
