Autumn Olive Elaeagnus umbellata 'Sweet 'n' Tart' (F)
ABOUT
Elaeagnus umbellata 'Sweet 'n' Tart' (F), commonly known as autumn olive, is a plant noted for its distinctive and attractive features. This variety presents a dense and bushy form, showcasing an array of leaves that exhibit a unique dual-toned appearance. The foliage is typically dark green on the top side, while the underside is a silvery color, creating a shimmering contrast that is particularly striking when ruffled by the wind. During the blooming season, the autumn olive bears small yet numerous flowers. These blossoms are cream or white-colored, often hidden among the leaves, but they stand out due to their sweet fragrance, attracting various pollinators to the plant. As the flowering phase wanes, the plant gives way to a bounty of berries. The fruits of this cultivar are characteristically round and speckled, featuring a mix of red and orange hues. These berries have both sweet and tangy flavors, which is reflected in the 'Sweet 'n' Tart' moniker. With its year-round visual interest, from the textured leaves to the fragrant flowers and colorful, edible fruit, Elaeagnus umbellata 'Sweet 'n' Tart' (F) is a plant with a striking presence that can add both beauty and function to a garden setting. The contrast of leaf colors, the floral aroma, and the vibrant berries all contribute to the aesthetic and sensory appeal of this versatile shrub.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Autumn Olive, Japanese Silverberry, Spreading Oleaster, Umbellate Oleaster
Common names
Elaeagnus umbellata Thunb.
ToxicityTo humans
Autumn Olive is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The berries are actually edible and have a pleasant flavor when ripe. There might be concerns for individual allergies or gastrointestinal discomfort if consumed in large amounts, as with many plant foods, but there are no commonly reported toxins in the plant that would cause poisoning or serious health issues for humans.
To pets
Autumn Olive is not known to be toxic to pets either. The fruit can be eaten in moderation by dogs and has been noted to be a source of vitamins and antioxidants. However, as with any non-traditional food, it should only be introduced to a pet's diet in small amounts initially to prevent potential digestive upset. No severe symptoms of poisoning from Autumn Olive have been commonly reported in pets.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Cream
Height
6 feet (1.8 meters)
Spread
6 feet (1.8 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Erosion Control: The plant's extensive root system helps to stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
- Wildlife Attraction: Produces berries that are attractive to birds and other wildlife for food.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it has good drought tolerance, making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, with no need for regular watering or fertilization.
- Ornamental Qualities: Offers visual interest with its silvery foliage and bright yellow flowers that bloom in spring.
- Tolerates Poor Soil: Adapts well to a variety of soil conditions, including poor or sandy soils.
- Windbreak: Can be used as a windbreak due to its dense growth habit.
- Privacy Screen: Dense foliage makes it ideal for use as a hedging plant to create privacy.
- Fast Growth: It is a fast-growing plant, providing quick results for landscaping needs.
- Edible Fruit: Produces edible berries that can be used in jams, pies, and other recipes.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Elaeagnus umbellata 'Sweet 'n' Tart' (F) can be used for erosion control as its root system helps stabilize soil on slopes and riverbanks.
- The dense foliage of Elaeagnus umbellata offers a habitat and safe nesting sites for birds and small mammals.
- The silvery leaves of Autumn Olive can be used in floral arrangements for their unique texture and color contrast.
- The wood of Elaeagnus umbellata is hard and durable, suitable for making small woodworking projects like handles and ornaments.
- Its reflective foliage can be strategically planted to reflect light into shadier parts of the garden, helping other plants grow.
- Autumn Olive can be established as a windbreak to protect crops and soil from damaging winds.
- The shrub's ability to fix nitrogen in the soil can be exploited in permaculture designs to enrich the growing environment for other plants.
- Bird photographers and watchers may use the plant as an attractant to capture images of birds drawn to its berries.
- Leaves and young twigs of Autumn Olive can be used to create natural dyes for craft projects.
- The interlocking branches can be trimmed and used as a natural barrier or living fence around a property.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiAutumn Olive is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityAutumn Olive is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Elaeagnus, commonly known as Autumn Olive, often symbolizes resilience because it can thrive in poor soil conditions and resist various climates.
- Prosperity and Abundance: The abundant red berries of the Autumn Olive can represent prosperity and the plentiful gifts of nature.
- Healing: With its nutritious berries rich in antioxidants, the Autumn Olive can also symbolize healing and the restorative powers of nature.
- Invasiveness: As an invasive species, Autumn Olive can symbolize the idea of taking over or overwhelming a situation, reminding us of the power and potential consequences of unchecked growth.
WaterThe Autumn Olive should be watered deeply and thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Generally, providing one to two gallons of water per week is adequate, but this may need to be increased during particularly hot or dry periods. It's important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. During the winter months, reduce the frequency of watering as the plant's water requirements decrease. Consistent moisture is key, especially for young plants establishing themselves.
LightAutumn Olive thrives best in full sun to partial shade conditions. The ideal spot for this plant is somewhere it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Although it can tolerate partial shade, more sun typically results in a better yield of fruit and flowers.
TemperatureAutumn Olive is hardy and can withstand a wide range of temperatures, from a minimum of about -20°F to a maximum summer heat of about 100°F. The ideal growing temperatures for the plant are between 60°F and 80°F. However, it's quite adaptable and can survive slight variations outside of this range.
PruningAutumn Olive should be pruned to maintain its shape and to encourage the growth of fruiting wood. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches and thin out the center of the plant to allow light and air to penetrate, which helps reduce the risk of disease. It is not necessary to prune every year; an established plant may only need significant pruning every 2-3 years.
CleaningAs needed
SoilAutumn Olive 'Sweet 'n' Tart' prefers well-draining, loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A soil mix that includes equal parts garden soil, peat, and perlite or sand can create an ideal environment for this shrub. Ensure the soil is rich in organic matter to support its growth.
RepottingAutumn Olive 'Sweet 'n' Tart' does not typically require frequent repotting as it's often grown in the landscape. If grown in containers, repotting every 2-3 years or when rootbound is sufficient.
Humidity & MistingAutumn Olive 'Sweet 'n' Tart' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels but thrives best in moderate conditions. It does not require high humidity and can adapt to the average outdoor ambient humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Use bright light, well-draining soil, and occasional watering.
Outdoor
Full sun to partial shade, well-draining soil, annual mulching.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleElaeagnus umbellata, commonly known as Autumn Olive, begins its life cycle with seed germination, typically occurring in the spring when soil temperatures rise. Following germination, the seedling emerges and establishes a root system, and the plant enters the vegetative growth stage, producing leaves, stems, and roots. As it matures, the plant transitions to the reproductive phase, where it develops flowers that are pollinated by insects, leading to fruit set. The 'Sweet 'n' Tart' variety produces berries that are a mix of sweet and tart flavors, which ripen in the late summer to fall, becoming a food source for wildlife and facilitating seed dispersal. Over the winter months, the plant experiences a period of dormancy, with reduced metabolic activity to conserve energy. Across years, the Autumn Olive undergoes cycles of growth, flowering, and fruiting, with mature plants able to reproduce and spread prolifically, often resulting in its classification as an invasive species in some regions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Elaeagnus umbellata 'Sweet 'n' Tart', commonly known as autumn olive, is typically propagated through seed sowing or softwood cuttings. The most popular method is softwood cuttings which are usually taken in late spring or early summer when the plant's new growth is still flexible but has begun to mature. Cuttings about 4 to 6 inches long, with several leaves, are snipped just below a node. The lower leaves are removed and the cut end is dipped in a rooting hormone before being planted in a mix of peat and perlite kept moist. The cuttings are then placed in a propagator or covered with a plastic bag to maintain high humidity until roots have developed, which generally takes several weeks.
