Russian Olive Elaeagnus angustifolia
ABOUT
Elaeagnus angustifolia, commonly known as the Russian olive, is a visually striking plant characterized by its narrow, willow-like leaves which have a silvery undersurface due to tiny scales. The upper surface of the leaves also has a dull green color that adds to the plant's unique color palette. During the blooming season, the Russian olive produces small, yet fragrant, yellowish flowers, giving off a pleasant aroma that adds to its appeal. The flowers are often hidden amidst the foliage but can be spotted by their strong scent. Following the flowering period, the plant bears olive-shaped fruits. These fruits begin with a silvery hue and gradually ripen to a reddish-brown color by autumn, providing a sharp contrast to the foliage. The bark of the Russian olive is also a notable feature. It has a distinctive dark brown coloring with deep fissures and a somewhat rough texture. As the plant matures, the branches may take on a twisted and contorted appearance that adds a rugged beauty to the overall aesthetic. Altogether, the Russian olive has a graceful, yet hardy appearance that makes it a popular choice for ornamental use in landscapes where its tolerance to various conditions is valued. Given its aesthetic qualities, the Russian olive provides a silvery-green hue to gardens, often accompanied by other plants which complement its unique appearance.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Elaeagnaceae.
Synonyms
Russian Olive, Oleaster, Trebizond Date, Silver Berry, Wild Olive, Russian Silverberry, Russian Elaeagnus.
Common names
Elaeagnus angustifolia var. orientalis, Elaeagnus argentea Moench, Elaeagnus argentea Thunb., Elaeagnus caspica Rech.f., Elaeagnus cuneifolia Sm., Elaeagnus fragrans Carrière, Elaeagnus goniocalyx Boiss., Elaeagnus hortensis M.Bieb., Elaeagnus ichangensis Gagnep., Elaeagnus ilicifolia Schltdl., Elaeagnus inamoena Hort., Elaeagnus incana Lam., Elaeagnus inermis Mill., Elaeagnus longipes var. parvifolia Servett., Elaeagnus loureiroi G.Don, Elaeagnus lusitanica L.f., Elaeagnus moorcroftii Wall. ex Schltdl., Elaeagnus orientalis L., Elaeagnus oxycarpa Schltdl., Elaeagnus parvifolia Wall. ex Royle, Elaeagnus reflexa Hort., Elaeagnus songarica Rupr., Elaeagnus spinosa L., Elaeagnus tomentosa Moench, Elaeagnus umbellata Thunb., Hippophae tomentosa (Moench) Avé-Lall., Rhamnus argentea Pall., Rhamnus inermis Willd.
ToxicityTo humans
Russian olive, the common name for Elaeagnus angustifolia, is not considered highly toxic to humans. However, some people may experience mild stomach upset if they ingest parts of the plant. There is no well-documented case of serious poisoning or death from eating Russian olive.
To pets
Russian olive may also cause mild gastrointestinal upset in pets if ingested. Though it is not listed as a highly toxic plant to dogs or cats, it is still advisable for pet owners to prevent their animals from eating large quantities of any non-food plant, including Russian olive, to avoid potential stomach discomfort or other issues.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
20 feet 6 meters [6.096]
Spread
20 feet 6 meters [6.096]
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Erosion control: The plant's extensive root system helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
- Windbreak: It can serve as a shelterbelt or windbreak, reducing wind erosion on agricultural land.
- Drought resistance: Adapted to arid climates, it requires minimal water once established.
- Wildlife habitat: Russian Olive provides shelter and nesting sites for birds and small mammals.
- Food for wildlife: Its fruits are a food source for birds and other wildlife.
- Ornamental use: With its silver foliage and fragrant flowers, it is used for landscaping.
- Nitrogen fixation: As a nitrogen-fixing plant, it can improve soil fertility.
- Shade provision: It grows to a good size to provide shade in gardens and on streets.
- Privacy screen: Its dense growth habit makes it suitable for use as a privacy hedge.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant: The leaves and fruits of Elaeagnus angustifolia, commonly known as Russian olive, contain antioxidants which may help in protecting the body from oxidative stress.
- Anti-inflammatory: Extracts from the plant have shown anti-inflammatory properties, which might help in reducing swelling and inflammation.
- Gastroprotective: The plant has been traditionally used to help in protecting the gastrointestinal tract and may have ulcer-protective effects.
- Antimicrobial: Russian olive has exhibited some antimicrobial activity which might be useful in fighting certain bacterial infections.
- Anxiolytic: There are indications that extracts from the plant may have anxiolytic effects, helping to reduce anxiety.
- Hepatoprotective: Some research suggests that the plant may offer some protection for the liver against certain toxins.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Elaeagnus angustifolia's wood is often used for making handles for tools due to its strength and durability.
- The Russian olive has a significant role in traditional basket weaving and is used for crafting beautiful and sturdy baskets.
- The thick and extensive root system of Russian olive helps in stabilizing soils, thereby controlling erosion particularly in dry and sandy areas.
- Due to their tolerance for harsh conditions, Russian olive trees can be planted for reforestation projects especially in arid and degraded lands.
- The silver foliage of the Russian olive can reflect moonlight, making it a popular choice for use in moon gardens or nighttime landscape designs.
- Beekeepers value Russian olive trees as they provide a rich source of nectar that bees can use to make honey, especially in early summer.
- The dense and thorny nature of this tree makes it ideal as a hedge or living fence, providing both privacy and protection for property boundaries.
- Russian olive trees are planted as windbreaks in agricultural settings, helping to protect crops from the damaging effects of wind erosion.
- The fragrant flowers of the Russian olive are sometimes used in the perfume industry, providing a subtle and unique aroma.
- In some cultures, the branches of Russian olive trees are used in various ceremonial and religious rites.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Russian Olive is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Russian Olive is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Elaeagnus angustifolia, commonly known as Russian olive, is known for its tough nature and ability to thrive in harsh conditions, symbolizing the strength to endure and adapt.
- Healing: In some cultures, the Russian olive has medicinal properties, representing healing and the restoration of health.
- Peace and Harmony: With its silvery foliage and small, fragrant flowers, the Russian olive is often associated with calmness and bringing a peaceful energy to its surroundings.
- Hope: Its ability to grow in poor soils and reclaim degraded landscapes makes the Russian olive a symbol of hope and the potential for renewal and new growth.
WaterFor Russian olive, establish a deep watering schedule during the first growing season to create a strong root system; water deeply every week with several gallons of water. Once established, the Russian Olive is drought-tolerant and may only need supplemental watering during prolonged dry spells. During these dry periods, provide a deep watering every two to three weeks, ensuring the water penetrates deep into the soil. Adjust watering in response to rainfall, lessening the amount when precipitation provides sufficient moisture. Water sparingly in winter when the plant is dormant.
LightThe Russian olive thrives in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. The ideal spot for this plant would be an area where it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. While the Russian olive is adaptable, it performs best in locations that provide ample sunlight to encourage healthy growth and fruiting.
TemperatureRussian olive is quite hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures; it can survive in temperatures as low as -30 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 100 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the ideal temperature conditions for the Russian olive are between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Excessive heat or cold may stress the plant, so sites with moderate temperatures are preferred.
PruningPruning Russian olive is important to maintain its shape and to remove any damaged or diseased branches. The best time for pruning is during the dormant season, late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Prune the plant every two to three years, thinning out old branches to allow light and air to reach the center of the canopy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilRussian Olive prefers well-drained soil with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.5. A mix of loam, compost, and sand is ideal to ensure adequate drainage and fertility. It is tolerant of poor soils, including saline ones.
RepottingRussian Olive typically does not require frequent repotting as it is often grown as an outdoor tree. When grown in containers, it may need repotting every 2 to 3 years to prevent root-bound conditions.
Humidity & MistingRussian Olive is highly adaptable and does not require specific humidity conditions. It thrives in average outdoor humidity levels, making it versatile for different climates without special requirements.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, minimize watering, allow soil to dry.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-drained soil, drought-tolerant once established.
Hardiness zone
2-8 USDA.
Life cycleCommonly known as Russian olive, Elaeagnus angustifolia begins its life cycle from seed, with germination typically occurring in spring after stratification breaks dormancy. Seedlings emerge and establish a root system, entering a phase of vegetative growth and developing leaves and stems. As the plant matures, it transitions to a reproductive stage, often after a few years, producing small, fragrant, yellowish flowers that rely on wind and insects for pollination. Following successful pollination, the flowers develop into silver-colored, olive-like fruits, which mature and are eventually dispersed by birds and other animals, aiding in the spread of the species. The Russian olive is deciduous, shedding its leaves in autumn and entering winter dormancy, during which it conserves energy and resources until favorable conditions return in spring, thus restarting the annual growth cycle. Russian olive can live for several decades, and over time, the plant may form dense thickets via root suckers, ensuring its persistence within an ecosystem and potentially reaching the climax stage of its life with mature, fully developed stands.
PropogationPropogation time
Late Winter – Early Spring
The Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia) is most commonly propagated using seeds. The best time to propagate by seed is in the fall after the seeds have matured. To ensure good germination, the seeds often require a period of cold stratification, which involves mixing the seeds with moist sand and storing them in a refrigerator at 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4.4°C) for about 60 days. After stratification, the seeds can be sown about a quarter-inch deep in well-draining soil and kept at a constant temperature of around 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21°C) to promote germination. Once sprouted, the seedlings can be grown on in individual pots before being transplanted outdoors after the risk of frost has passed.
