Broad-leaved oleaster Elaeagnus macrophylla
ABOUT
Elaeagnus macrophylla, widely known as the large-leaved silverberry, is a distinctive plant with features that make it easily recognizable. The leaves are one of the most striking aspects of its appearance, being large and boasting a wonderfully rich green color on the upper surface. In contrast, the undersides of the leaves are much lighter, often a silvery or dusty white hue, which becomes prominent when the leaves flutter in the wind. The large-leaved silverberry has a bushy growth habit with branches that spread openly, giving it a lush, full appearance. Throughout the plant, the branches are adorned with leaves that have a slightly wavy or rippled border, adding to its textured look. Additionally, the plant sports small, yet noticeable, bell-shaped flowers that are fragrant. These blossoms can range in color, but are typically cream or whitish, and sometimes have interior streaks or speckles. The flowers are succeeded by fruit, which are small and resemble berries. These fruits often carry the same silvery tone as the underside of the leaves, making them blend seamlessly with the foliage. Overall, the plant's combination of large, dual-toned leaves, fragrant flowers, and silvery fruit creates a diverse tapestry of color and texture that is visually striking in a garden or landscape setting. The large-leaved silverberry's robust appearance, without considering its size, allows it to serve as both an attractive specimen on its own and as a functional part of a hedgerow or windbreak when planted in groups.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Elaeagnaceae
Synonyms
Broad-leaved Oleaster, Large-leaved Elaeagnus
Common names
Elaeagnus macrophylla.
ToxicityTo humans
Elaeagnus macrophylla, commonly known as the Large-leaved Oleaster, is not generally considered toxic to humans. There is a lack of significant evidence to suggest that the Elaeagnus species are poisonous. However, as with any plant material, sensitive individuals may experience adverse reactions, such as gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions, if ingested in large quantities or if they have a particular sensitivity.
To pets
There is no widespread documentation of the Large-leaved Oleaster being toxic to pets. However, pets have different sensitivities compared to humans, and even non-toxic plants can cause mild stomach upset if ingested in large amounts. Always monitor your pets when introducing new plants into their environment and consult with a veterinarian if you notice any adverse health reactions after ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Cream
Height
8-10 feet [2.4-3 meters]
Spread
8-10 feet [2.4-3 meters]
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: The large-leafed Elaeagnus, also known as the broad-leaved silverberry, adds aesthetic value to gardens with its attractive foliage and silvery flowers.
- Erosion Control: This plant has a robust root system that can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes.
- Wildlife Habitat: Provides shelter and food for a variety of wildlife creatures, including birds and beneficial insects.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Elaeagnus macrophylla demonstrates a strong tolerance to drought conditions, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Windbreak: Its dense foliage and sturdy growth habit make it an excellent choice for use as a windbreak or natural barrier.
- Hedging and Screening: It can be pruned and shaped to form effective hedges or privacy screens in landscaping designs.
- Coastal Planting: The plant exhibits salt tolerance, making it suitable for planting in coastal areas.
- Soil Improvement: As a nitrogen-fixing plant, it can help to improve soil fertility for other plants in the vicinity.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Elaeagnus macrophylla, commonly known as Oleaster, can be used as a windbreak or hedge in coastal areas, as it is tolerant of sea spray and saline soils.
- The dense foliage of Oleaster provides excellent habitat and shelter for wildlife, such as birds and small mammals, which use it for nesting and protection.
- Oleaster's wood is hard and durable, which can be crafted into small tools or used as firewood for heating and cooking purposes.
- The silver-colored undersides of Oleaster leaves can be used in floral arrangements or as unique additions to wreaths and other decorative crafts.
- Fruits of Oleaster, which are high in antioxidants, can be made into jams, jellies, or fermented to create unique wines and spirits.
- The plant's extensive root system can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes and banks, making it useful for landscape restoration projects.
- Since Oleaster can grow in poor soils, it is often used in phytoremediation efforts to rehabilitate degraded lands and former industrial sites.
- Oleaster can be espaliered against walls or fences, creating an attractive and productive ornamental feature in gardens and landscapes.
- The flowers of Oleaster, though small and inconspicuous, are fragrant and can be used to produce a light, sweet-scented essential oil used in perfumery.
- In some cultures, the fallen leaves of Oleaster are gathered and used as a natural mulch to suppress weeds and retain soil moisture in gardens.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant_name is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant_name is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: The Elaeagnus macrophylla, commonly known as the large-leaved silverberry, is known for its hardy nature, symbolizing the ability to withstand difficult conditions and bounce back from adversity.
- Adaptability: As the large-leaved silverberry adapts well to various soil types and environmental conditions, it represents the capacity to adapt and thrive in diverse situations.
- Fertility: With its abundant fruit production, the large-leaved silverberry is often associated with fertility and the creation of new life.
- Protection: The dense foliage of the large-leaved silverberry provides shelter and protection, symbolizing a safe haven or a protective barrier against harm.
WaterThe Ebbing's Silverberry should be watered deeply, making sure the water penetrates the soil to reach the root zone, rather than just wetting the surface. It's best to water this plant when the top few inches of soil have dried out, which might mean watering once a week during active growth periods and less frequently during cooler months. Provide about 1-2 gallons of water for a medium-sized shrub every time you water, ensuring consistent moisture but avoiding waterlogged conditions. Slight reductions in watering frequency are recommended during the winter when the plant is not actively growing.
LightEbbing's Silverberry thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions, making it versatile for different garden spots. It performs best when it receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily, so a spot that offers bright, indirect light or dappled shade part of the day is ideal. Avoid deep shade as this can lead to reduced flowering and a leggy growth habit.
TemperatureEbbing's Silverberry is hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, generally withstanding lows down to around 0°F and thriving in temperatures up to 90°F or higher. Ideal growing conditions for this plant are in temperate zones, with the temperature ranging from 60°F to 75°F during the growing season.
PruningEbbing's Silverberry should be pruned to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Prune as needed to remove dead or damaged branches, and to shape the plant. Light pruning can be done throughout the year to remove any unruly or overextended branches.
CleaningNot needed
SoilThe best soil mix for a Thorny Eleagnus is one that is well-draining and fertile. A mix of garden soil, compost, and sandy loam works well. Aim for a soil pH of 6.0 to 7.5 to ensure optimal growth.
RepottingThorny Eleagnus should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when it has outgrown its current pot. Check the root system in spring and repot if necessary for healthy growth.
Humidity & MistingThorny Eleagnus tolerates a wide range of humidity levels but thrives in moderate to high humidity. It's adaptable, but avoid excessively dry air to encourage lush foliage.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and avoid dry air.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained soil, full sun to part shade.
Hardiness zone
7-9 USDA
Life cycleElaeagnus macrophylla, commonly known as Thunberg's oleaster, begins its life cycle as a seed, which after undergoing stratification germinates in the spring. The seedling phase involves rapid root growth and the emergence of first leaves, as the plant establishes itself. As it enters the vegetative growth stage, Thunberg's oleaster develops a woody stem, branches, and large, leathery green leaves, with growth typically accelerating in the second year. Upon reaching maturity after several years, it enters the reproductive phase, producing small, fragrant, silvery-white flowers that are pollinated by insects. Following pollination, the plant develops fruit in the form of fleshy, edible drupes, which mature to disseminate seeds either through animal ingestion or dropping to the ground. Finally, the plant enters a period of senescence in later years, marked by reduced growth and productivity until it eventually dies.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Elaeagnus macrophylla, commonly known as Broad-leaved Oleaster, can be effectively propagated by the method of semi-ripe cuttings. The best time to do this is in late summer to early fall when the growth from that season has begun to harden slightly. To propagate using semi-ripe cuttings, select healthy, semi-ripe shoots from the current year's growth. These cuttings should be around 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) long and include several leaf nodes. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone to encourage root development. The treated cuttings are then inserted into a pot filled with a mixture of peat and perlite or sand, ensuring good drainage. The pot should then be placed in a warm, shaded area and kept moist until the cuttings have rooted, which can take several weeks.
