Autumn Olive Elaeagnus umbellata

Names

• Family

  Elaeagnaceae.

• Synonyms

  Autumn Olive, Japanese Silverberry, Silver Berry, Spreading Oleaster, Umbellata Oleaster.

• Common names

  Elaeagnus umbellata Thunb.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Autumn Olive is not considered toxic to humans. In fact, the berries of the Autumn Olive are edible and are often used in jams, jellies, and for wine-making. However, excessive consumption of the fruit can lead to typical digestive upset, as is common with overconsumption of many types of fruit.

• To pets

  Autumn Olive is not widely recognized as a toxic plant to pets either. The fruit of the Autumn Olive may be eaten by some wildlife without apparent ill effect. However, as with any non-typical food, ingestion of plant material by pets could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the novelty and fiber content. It's always wise to monitor your pets around plants and discourage them from eating ornamental vegetation to prevent any possible stomach upset or an unexpected allergic reaction.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Yellow

• Height

  10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters)

• Spread

  10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters)

• Plant type

  Shrub

• Hardiness zones

  4-9

• Native area

  Asia

General Benefits

• Erosion Control: Elaeagnus umbellata, commonly known as Autumn Olive, has extensive root systems that help stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
• Wildlife Habitat: Autumn Olive provides shelter and nesting sites for various wildlife species including birds and small mammals.
• Food Source: The berries of Autumn Olive are a food source for birds and other wildlife, and can also be consumed by humans when ripe.
• Nitrogen Fixation: Autumn Olive has the ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen, which can improve soil fertility and support the growth of neighboring plants.
• Hedge Planting: Due to its dense growth habit, Autumn Olive can be used for privacy hedges or living fences, providing a natural barrier.
• Ornamental Use: With its silvery foliage and fragrant flowers, Autumn Olive is often planted for ornamental purposes in landscapes and gardens.
• Reclamation Species: Autumn Olive is capable of growing in disturbed or poor soils, making it a suitable species for reclamation projects.
• Drought Tolerance: The plant is relatively drought-tolerant once established, reducing the need for supplemental watering in arid regions.

Medical Properties

• Antioxidant activity: The fruit of Elaeagnus umbellata has been found to contain high levels of antioxidants, which can help in neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Some studies suggest that extracts from the leaves and fruits of the plant have anti-inflammatory effects, which might be beneficial in reducing inflammation-related conditions.
• Nutritive value: The berries are known to be rich in vitamins and minerals, potentially supporting overall health and wellness.
• Traditional medicine: In some cultures, parts of the plant have been used traditionally for various health issues, although scientific evidence to support these uses may be limited.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Elaeagnus umbellata, also known as autumn olive, can be used for erosion control due to its extensive root system which helps stabilize soil.
• The shrub can be planted as part of wildlife habitat restoration projects because it provides food for animals in the form of its berries.
• Autumn olive is sometimes used for noise reduction barriers alongside highways since it forms dense thickets that can help absorb sound.
• The wood of Elaeagnus umbellata is hard and durable, making it suitable for crafting small wooden items such as handles, walking sticks, and even furniture.
• This plant can be used in hedgerows or living fences due to its dense growth and thorny branches, which can act as a physical barrier to livestock and unwelcome visitors.
• Autumn olive's foliage is used for ornamental purposes because of its silvery-green leaves which can add a unique texture to landscape designs.
• The plant can be integrated into permaculture gardens as a nitrogen-fixer that improves soil fertility for surrounding plants.
• Elaeagnus umbellata has been used in land reclamation projects, especially on degraded lands where few other plants can thrive.
• The fruit of autumn olive can be used for dyeing fabric, giving a range of colors from yellow to green depending on the mordant used.
• Its dense growth habit provides ideal cover and nesting opportunities for various species of birds, aiding in maintaining bird populations in disturbed areas.

Feng Shui

The Autumn Olive is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Autumn Olive is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Resilience: Elaeagnus umbellata, commonly known as autumn olive, is known for its hardy nature and ability to thrive in difficult conditions, symbolizing the ability to overcome adversity.
• Perseverance: The plant's vigorous growth and tendency to spread reflect the idea of perseverance and relentless effort.
• Prosperity: With its abundant red berries, autumn olive represents wealth and prosperity, as fruitfulness is often associated with richness in many cultures.
• Healing: Due to its nitrogen-fixing capabilities which improve soil health, autumn olive is sometimes seen as a symbol for healing and restoration of the land.