Silverberry, Silverthorn (Elaeagnus pungens)

Silverberry, Silverthorn
Scientific Name: Elaeagnus pungens Thunb.
Family: Elaeagnaceae

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Elaeagnus pungens 'Fruitlandii' Recommended Temperature Zone:
sunset: 5-24
USDA: 7-10

Sun Exposure: Partial shade to full sun
Origin: Japan, China
Growth Habits: Evergreen shrub, rapidly up to 10 feet tall (3 m), 9 feet in spread (2.7 m); spiny stems; dark green alternate leaves, with silvery underside, up to 3 inches long (7.5 cm)
Watering Needs: Little to regular water
Propagation: Softwood cuttings or seeds

There are several varieties of Silverberries. 'Fruitlandii' has longer, more rounded leaves, with wavy margins. Its slightly spiny branches have a brownish hue.

Cultural Practices:
Prune to shape.

Blooming Habits:
During the fall, this silverberry has small, quite inconspicuous, silvery-white, fragrant, bell shaped flowers, borne in clusters. They are followed by red fruits that can be used in jellies.

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