Contents
Description
Elaeagnus Glabra, commonly known as oleaster, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Elaeagnaceae family. It is native to Asia and Europe and can grow as tall as 20 feet. The leaves of this shrub are dark green and have a silver underside, which makes them look shiny. It produces small, fragrant, and creamy-yellow flowers in late spring, which develop into a hard, edible fruit that is red and covered in silver scales. The fruit is tart and has a flavor that is similar to apricots.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Elaeagnaceae |
| Genus | Elaeagnus |
Appearance
The Elaeagnus Glabra shrub has a dense and bushy growth habit. Its leaves are oval-shaped and have a pointed tip, growing up to 4 inches long and 2 inches wide. They are dark green on top and silver on the bottom, making them look shiny. The shrub produces small and fragrant flowers that are creamy-yellow in color and bloom in late spring. The fruit is hard, edible, and red, covered in silver scales, giving it a unique appearance.
Care Guide
- Water: Water the shrub regularly during the growing season, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in the winter.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the shrub in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilization, which can cause leaf burn.
- Soil: Plant Elaeagnus Glabra in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. The shrub can tolerate a wide range of soil types but prefers loamy soil.
- Sunlight: The shrub prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Elaeagnus Glabra grows well in USDA hardiness zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Elaeagnus Glabra is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to leaf spot, powdery mildew, and scale insects. Leaf spot can be controlled by removing infected leaves and avoiding overhead watering. Powdery mildew can be treated with a fungicide, and scale insects can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Elaeagnus Glabra is native to Asia and Europe and can be found growing in woodlands, scrublands, and along riverbanks. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions. It is also commonly grown as an ornamental shrub in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Elaeagnus Glabra deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Elaeagnus Glabra is deer-resistant. Q: Can the fruit of Elaeagnus Glabra be eaten?
A: Yes, the fruit of Elaeagnus Glabra is edible and has a tart flavor that is similar to apricots.Q: Does Elaeagnus Glabra require pruning?
A: Elaeagnus Glabra does not require pruning, but it can be pruned to maintain its shape and size.Q: What is the ideal temperature for Elaeagnus Glabra?
A: Elaeagnus Glabra grows well in temperatures ranging from 50 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Related Plants
- Elaeagnus Pungens
- Elaeagnus Umbellata
- Elaeagnus Ebbingei
References
- “Elaeagnus Glabra.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a131.
- “Elaeagnus Glabra.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/oleaster-elanagnus-glabra-3269219.
- “Elaeagnus Glabra.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/oleaster/oleaster-shrubs.htm.
