Elaeagnus umbellata
TAXONOMY
FamilyElaeagnaceae
GenusElaeagnus
Zone4
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Elaeagnus umbellata, commonly known as Autumn Olive, is a deciduous shrub native to Asia. It is known for its silvery foliage and small, fragrant flowers that bloom in spring, followed by red berries in the fall. The plant is hardy and can thrive in a variety of soil types, making it a popular choice for erosion control and wildlife habitat. It has a dormancy period during the winter months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Autumn Olive
Elaeagnus coreana
Elaeagnus crispa
Elaeagnus crispa var. praematura
Elaeagnus longipes var. crispa
Elaeagnus padifolia
Elaeagnus praematura
Elaeagnus umbellata f. nakaiana
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity50%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Autumn Olive requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. It thrives in moderate temperatures and can tolerate a range of humidity levels. Regular watering is necessary, but the soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings. The plant is relatively low-maintenance but benefits from occasional pruning to maintain its shape and health.Soil
Elaeagnus umbellata prefers well-draining loamy soil but can adapt to various soil types, including sandy and clay soils. It is tolerant of poor soil conditions and can even improve soil fertility through nitrogen fixation. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 can be applied in the spring to support growth. Fertilize once a year, and avoid over-fertilizing as the plant can thrive in nutrient-poor soils.Repotting
Repotting is generally not necessary for outdoor shrubs. However, if grown in a container, repot every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and provide more space for root growth. Choose a slightly larger pot and ensure good drainage.Propagation
Autumn Olive can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, or layering. Seeds should be sown in the fall or stratified before spring planting. Softwood cuttings can be taken in early summer, while hardwood cuttings are best in late fall. Layering can be done in spring or fall.Pruning
Pruning is recommended to maintain the shape and health of the shrub. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, and thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.Toxicity
Elaeagnus umbellata is not toxic to pets or humans. The berries are edible and often used in jams and jellies. However, the plant can become invasive in some areas, so it is important to manage its spread.Additional
Autumn Olive is known for its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, which can improve soil fertility. It is also a valuable plant for wildlife, providing food and shelter for birds and other animals. However, due to its invasive nature, it is important to monitor and control its growth in non-native areas.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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