Thorny elaeagnus Elaeagnus pungens 'Frederici' (v)
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as the thorny olive 'Frederici', features dense, spreading branches. The leaves of this variety display a unique variegation pattern, with creamy white to yellow margins that outline the green centers. This variegated foliage adds a distinct visual interest throughout the year. In addition to its striking leaves, the thorny olive 'Frederici' is also noteworthy for its small, but highly fragrant, silvery-white flowers which add a subtle charm and are attractive to pollinators. These blooms usually appear in the fall or early winter, providing a pleasant scent during a time when few other plants are in flower. Following flowering, the plant produces small fruits that are silvery, ripening to a reddish color, and are favored by birds. The stems of this plant are indeed thorny, hence the common name, which can make handling this plant a careful task. Its overall appearance is that of a tough, resilient shrub with a rich tapestry of variegated green and creamy hues, along with seasonal interest from its fragrant flowers and colorful fruit.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Elaeagnaceae
Synonyms
Silverthorn, Thorny Olive, Elaeagnus, Spotted Elaeagnus, Silverberry
Common names
Elaeagnus pungens 'Frederici'
ToxicityTo humans
The silverthorn (common name for Elaeagnus pungens 'Frederici') is not widely recognized for having high toxicity to humans. However, it is always advisable to exercise caution as individual reactions can vary, and ingesting parts of ornamental plants is generally not recommended. There is no well-documented evidence of severe toxicity from ingestion of this plant in humans. If you suspect poisoning, it is important to seek medical advice.
To pets
Silverthorn is not typically listed as a toxic plant to pets. However, as with humans, the ingestion of plant material can sometimes cause mild stomach upset in some animals due to the unusual substances and fibers, even if the plant is not specifically poisonous. If your pet shows symptoms of distress such as vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in behavior after ingesting this plant, consult your veterinarian for advice and treatment.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
Varies
Height
8-10 feet (2.4-3.0 meters)
Spread
8-10 feet (2.4-3.0 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Foliage: Elaeagnus pungens 'Frederici' (v), commonly known as Silverthorn or Thorny Olive, has variegated leaves with green centers and creamy white to yellow margins, adding visual interest to the garden.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Silverthorn is capable of withstanding periods of drought, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-water landscapes.
- Erosion Control: With its dense growth habit, Silverthorn can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes or in areas prone to soil loss.
- Wildlife Support: Silverthorn produces small, fragrant flowers that attract pollinators, and its fruit can provide food for birds and other wildlife.
- Privacy Screening: Due to its dense and thorny nature, Silverthorn can be used as a privacy screen or hedge, deterring intruders and providing seclusion.
- Windbreak: Can act as a windbreak, providing protection for more delicate plants in the garden.
- Hedge and Topiary Plant: It can be pruned and shaped into formal hedges or topiary forms, offering versatility in garden design.
- Adaptive Growth: Silverthorn is adaptable to a variety of soil types, including poor or compacted soils, as long as drainage is adequate.
- Coastal Tolerance: This plant shows a degree of salt tolerance, making it suitable for coastal areas and seaside gardens.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Thorny Barrier: Due to its dense and prickly nature, Elaeagnus pungens 'Frederici', commonly known as Thorny elaeagnus, can be used as a security hedge to deter intruders.
- Windbreak: It can serve as an effective windbreak, protecting more delicate plants from strong winds when planted in rows or as a shelterbelt.
- Erosion Control: Thorny elaeagnus is ideal for hillside planting to prevent soil erosion because of its robust root system.
- Noise Reduction: The thick, bushy nature of Thorny elaeagnus makes it suitable for absorbing sound, providing a noise buffer in urban settings.
- Wildlife Habitat: The dense foliage offers excellent nesting and cover for birds and small mammals.
- Privacy Screening: Its fast-growing and evergreen characteristics make it well-suited for creating a quick-growing privacy screen around property perimeters.
- Fragrant Garden Addition: The flowers of Thorny elaeagnus emit a delightful scent, ideal for adding fragrance to gardens.
- Ornamental Use: Its variegated leaves and interesting texture make it a valuable ornamental plant for landscaping.
- Coastal Planting: Thorny elaeagnus' tolerance for salt spray makes it a great choice for coastal areas to provide greenery and stabilization.
- Culinary Use: The fruit of Thorny elaeagnus can be used to make preserves and is sometimes eaten fresh.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Elaeagnus or Silverthorn is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Elaeagnus or Silverthorn is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Elaeagnus pungens 'Frederici', commonly known as Silverberry or Thorny Olive, is known for its durable and hardy nature, symbolizing the ability to withstand harsh conditions and adversity.
- Protection: With its thorny branches, Silverberry can serve as a natural barrier, symbolizing protection and defense against negative forces.
- Adaptability: This plant's versatility in various soil types and environmental conditions represents adaptability to different life situations.
- Growth: Silverberry's vigorous growth habit symbolizes personal growth and expansion of one's boundaries.
- Beauty in Harshness: The attractive foliage and fragrant flowers of Silverberry thriving in tough conditions can symbolize finding beauty and positivity even in difficult circumstances.
WaterThe Silverthorn should be watered regularly but moderation is key to prevent waterlogging. During the growing season, water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, which could be once or twice a week, depending on climate conditions. Use approximately 1 gallon of water per plant for each watering session. In winter, reduce the frequency of watering since the plant is less active and the soil retains moisture longer. It's critical not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
LightSilverthorn thrives in either full sun or partial shade, with a preference for bright, indirect light if grown indoors. The best spot would be one where the plant receives filtered sunlight for most of the day, which encourages healthy growth. Avoid exposing the Silverthorn to extended periods of direct, harsh sunlight, which can scorch leaves.
TemperatureSilverthorn is hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, doing well in conditions between 10 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the ideal temperature range for optimal growth is between 50 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Exposing the plant to temperatures below 10 degrees can be harmful, so it's best to protect it from frost.
PruningPruning Silverthorn is essential for maintaining its shape, controlling its size, and encouraging bushier growth. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Remove any dead or damaged branches, and trim back as needed to maintain the desired form. Pruning up to once a year is sufficient for most plants, but it can be pruned more often if it's grown as a hedge.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor Silverthorn (the common name for Elaeagnus pungens 'Frederici'), a well-draining soil mix is essential. A blend consisting of loamy garden soil, peat moss, and gritty sand or perlite encourages healthy growth. Ideally, the pH should be between 6.0 and 7.0. Regular checks and amendments may be necessary to maintain optimal pH and soil structure.
RepottingSilverthorn should be repotted approximately every 2 to 3 years or when it becomes root-bound. As a slow to moderately growing plant, it does not require frequent repotting. Ensure to upsize the pot if the roots are growing through the drainage holes or the growth seems stunted.
Humidity & MistingSilverthorn thrives in moderate humidity levels. While it can adapt to a range of humidity conditions, it prefers an environment that mimics its coastal origins. Therefore, a humidity level of around 40-50% is ideal, but the plant is relatively tolerant of variations.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Silverthorn in bright indirect light, keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil, partial sun, shelter from wind.
Hardiness zone
7-11 USDA
Life cycleThe Elaeagnus pungens 'Frederici' (v), commonly known as Variegated Silverberry, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in favorable soil conditions with adequate warmth and moisture. As a seedling, it establishes a root system and starts to develop foliage through photosynthesis. In the vegetative stage, Variegated Silverberry experiences significant growth; producing broad, spiny leaves that are green with irregular yellow and white margins. The plant eventually reaches maturity, characterized by the production of small, fragrant, silvery flowers in late autumn to winter, which are often followed by reddish-brown drupes. Over the years, Variegated Silverberry may require seasonal pruning to maintain shape and promote air circulation, which also encourages further growth and flowering in subsequent cycles. As a perennial, the life stages from maturation to flowering repeat annually, with the plant living for many years before eventually senescing and dying.
PropogationPropogation time
Late Winter to Early Spring
Elaeagnus pungens 'Frederici', commonly known as Silverthorn or Thorny Olive, is most effectively propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. This method is typically performed during the summer months when the current year's growth has matured slightly and the stems are not too tender. To propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings, select healthy, disease-free branches and cut sections about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) in length. Each cutting should have at least two to three sets of leaves. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting to create a clean stem end, which can be dipped into a rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. The prepared cuttings are then inserted into a potting mix containing peat and perlite, ensuring at least one set of leaf nodes is buried where the roots will form. Maintaining high humidity and providing bottom heat can enhance rooting success, with roots typically forming within a few weeks to a couple of months.
