Elaeagnus Oldhamii

Description

Elaeagnus Oldhamii, also known as Silverberry or Oleaster, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Elaeagnaceae family. It is native to China and Taiwan and is commonly found in Asia, North America, and Europe. The plant can grow up to a height of 10 to 15 feet and has a spread of up to 10 feet. It is often planted for ornamental purposes due to its attractive appearance.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Elaeagnus Oldhamii has green leaves with a silver underside, giving it an attractive appearance. The leaves are alternate, simple, and ovate in shape, measuring 6-10 centimeters long and 3-5 centimeters wide. The plant also produces fragrant, small, and inconspicuous flowers, which are yellow-white in color and bloom in autumn. The fruit produced is a small, round, and red drupe, measuring about 1 centimeter in diameter.

Care Guide

Elaeagnus Oldhamii is a hardy plant that requires minimal maintenance. Here is a detailed care guide:

Water

The plant requires regular watering during the summer months, but it can tolerate drought conditions. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Fertilization

The plant does not require regular fertilization, but it can benefit from an occasional application of a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.

Soil

Elaeagnus Oldhamii prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including acidic and alkaline soils.

Sunlight

The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not produce as many flowers or fruit.

Hardiness Zones

Elaeagnus Oldhamii is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10, which means it can tolerate temperatures as low as 0°F (-18°C).

Common Pests & Diseases

Elaeagnus Oldhamii is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to spider mites and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with regular applications of insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.

Habitat

Elaeagnus Oldhamii is native to China and Taiwan and is commonly found in Asia, North America, and Europe. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of soil types. The plant is often used for ornamental purposes due to its attractive appearance.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Elaeagnus Oldhamii a fast-growing plant?

A: Yes, Elaeagnus Oldhamii is a relatively fast-growing plant and can grow up to 1 to 2 feet per year.

Q: Can Elaeagnus Oldhamii be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Elaeagnus Oldhamii can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the root system.

Q: Does Elaeagnus Oldhamii produce edible fruit?

A: Yes, Elaeagnus Oldhamii produces small red fruit that is edible but not commonly consumed.

Q: Is Elaeagnus Oldhamii a good plant for attracting wildlife?

A: Yes, Elaeagnus Oldhamii is a good plant for attracting wildlife, including birds and insects.

Related Plants

• Elaeagnus x ebbingei
• Elaeagnus commutata
• Elaeagnus multiflora
• Elaeagnus pungens

References

• “Elaeagnus Oldhamii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 7 July 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org.
• “Elaeagnus Oldhamii.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 7 July 2021. www.rhs.org.uk.
• “Elaeagnus Oldhamii.” University of Connecticut Plant Database. Accessed 7 July 2021. www.hort.uconn.edu.