Elaeagnus angustifolia – Russian olive, Oleaster

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Elaeagnaceae

Elaeagnus angustifolia – Russian olive, Oleaster

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High, loosely growing shrub that ultimately grows to become a small, multi-trunked tree. Naturally occurring in dry places such as dunes and dry riverbeds. It can sometimes grow up to 12 m there. Growth is irregular, with thin twigs that fan out. Has an open crown shape that can grow to a width of approx. 5 - 7 m. The twigs turn from a silvery grey to reddish brown colour. Often bears strong thorns. The matted green, lanceolate leaves are 3 - 9 cm long and approx. 2.5 cm wide. The velvety underside is a striking silvery white colour. The bell-shaped flowers, approx. 1 cm in size, sometimes grow in clusters of 2 to 3 together. They have a strong aroma and are followed by olive-shaped, yellow drupes. They are edible and taste slightly sweet. Prefers a light and sunny, calcareous site. Suitable for industrial areas. Tolerates de-icing salt.
Our trees can only be planted when they don't have any leaves. Due to the this we will start delivering again from November 2024.
Availability
Multi-stem (2)
Specifications
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Height
4 - 8 (12) m
Crown
oval round, open, half-open crown, capricious growing
Bark and branches
greyish green bark, shallow grooves, twigs silvery with thorns
Leaf
lanceolate, matted green, silvery grey underneath, 3 - 9 cm
Flowers
1 to 3 together, silver♂ yellow, May/June, fragrant flowers
Fruits
oval, yellow drupe, edible, Ø approx. 1 cm
Spines/thorns
Yes
Toxicity
usually not toxic to people, (large) pets and livestock
Soil type
calcareous sandy soil, preferably dry
Soil moisture
suitable for dry soil
Paving
tolerates paving
Winter hardiness zone
3 (-40,0 to -24,5 °C)
Wind resistance
good, suitable for coastal areas
Other resistances
resistant to frost (WH 1 - 6), can withstand wind, resistant to de-icing salt
Fauna tree
valuable for bees (honey plant), provides food for birds
Application
tree containers, roof gardens, coastal areas, industrial areas, small gardens, patio gardens
Shape
clearstem tree, multi-stem treem
Origin
Mediterranean area to Western and Central Asia
Clear stem tree Multi-stem tree calcareous soil loamy soil sandy soil tolerates paving light-loving resistant to de-icing salt resistant to frost (WH 1 - 6) suitable for dry soil can withstand wind oval 3rd size, smaller than 6 metres half-open crown greygreen yellow May average growing Conspicuous bloom valuable for bees (honey plant) provides food for birds non-toxic (usually) Capricious growing Ornamental fruit Fragrant flowers yes
Applications and inspiration
Trees that can tolerate drought
Frequently asked questions
Elaeagnus angustifolia

Elaeagnus angustifolia can eventually reach a height of 4 - 8 (12) m, depending on the site and climate conditions.

Elaeagnus angustifolia is average growing and can eventually reach a height of 4 - 8 (12) m, depending on the site and climate conditions.

The right time to plant Elaeagnus angustifolia is during the dormancy period. In Western Europe, Elaeagnus angustifolia with root balls can generally be planted from mid-November to late April, although this depends strongly on the climatic conditions and the species of tree.

Elaeagnus angustifolia blooms in may.
General