Elaeagnus angustifolia

Russian olive is a deciduous shrub in the oleander family that is native to Asia, Russia and India. It is a large thorny shrub or small tree, that has a rounded form but can get leggy with a  loose and irregular form. It can grow up to 30 feet tall. The species was introduced into North America in the late 19th century as an ornamental but quickly spread over a large area due to an aggressive root system, fast growth rate and spread of the seeds by birds.

The plant grows in full sun and prefers a light sandy or loamy soil but it will tolerate a range of soil types as it is able to fix nitrogen.  It is drought and salt-spray tolerant but dislikes the summer heat.  The leaves and stems are covered in silvery or rusty scales and the summer flowers are aromatic and cream-colored. They are followed by silvery fruits. The plant does tolerate pruning, but keep in mind that next year's blossoms will appear on old growth.

Russian olive out-competes native plants and has dominated riparian areas primarily in central and western USA but is also found on the east coast from Maine to SC and east to PA and TN.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Canker disease is occasionally a problem. It is listed as invasive by the NC Invasive Plant Council. See native alternatives to the left.