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Description
Elaeagnus Macrophylla, also known as the Large-Leaved Silverberry, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Elaeagnaceae family. It is native to China and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. The plant has a graceful appearance with its arching branches and silvery-green leaves that are large, oval-shaped, and have a slightly wavy margin. The shrub blooms in late spring or early summer with small, fragrant, and bell-shaped flowers that are yellow-white in color. The flowers are followed by small, red, and edible berries that are sweet but slightly astringent in taste.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Elaeagnaceae |
| Genus | Elaeagnus |
Appearance
Elaeagnus Macrophylla is a fast-growing and medium-sized shrub that can reach up to 4 meters in height and 3 meters in width. The plant has a dense and spreading habit with arching branches that form a rounded crown. The leaves are alternate, simple, and measure up to 15 centimeters in length and 7 centimeters in width. The upper surface of the leaves is dark green, while the lower surface is silvery or brownish. The shrub blooms in late spring or early summer with small, fragrant, and bell-shaped flowers that are about 1 centimeter in length. The flowers are followed by small, red, and edible berries that are about 1 centimeter in diameter.
Care Guide
Elaeagnus Macrophylla is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires minimal maintenance. Here are some care tips:- Water: The shrub prefers moderate watering and can tolerate some drought. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in winter.- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.- Soil: The shrub prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. Amend the soil with compost or organic matter before planting.- Sunlight: The plant grows best in full sun to partial shade. Provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: The shrub is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Elaeagnus Macrophylla is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally suffer from the following problems:- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.- Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to control them.- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and spray with a fungicide.
Habitat
Elaeagnus Macrophylla is native to China and grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, thickets, and rocky slopes. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can grow in both sunny and shaded locations.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Elaeagnus Macrophylla deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the shrub is deer-resistant due to its thorny branches and strong scent.
Q: Can Elaeagnus Macrophylla be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the shrub can be grown in containers as long as it is provided with well-draining soil and regular watering.
Q: How often should I prune Elaeagnus Macrophylla?
A: Prune the shrub in late winter or early spring before the new growth appears. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches and shape the plant as desired.
Q: Is Elaeagnus Macrophylla drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, the shrub is drought-tolerant and can withstand some dry conditions.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Elaeagnus Macrophylla:- Elaeagnus Angustifolia- Elaeagnus Commutata- Elaeagnus Multiflora- Elaeagnus Pungens- Elaeagnus Umbellata
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Elaeagnus macrophylla. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287525- University of Wisconsin-Madison. (n.d.). Elaeagnus macrophylla. Retrieved from https://wimastergardener.org/article/elaeagnus-macrophylla/
