No images found for this plant ID: 16099.
Ensure images are uploaded to the Media Library and tagged with "16099" in the "plant_image_tag" taxonomy.
thorny olive
Scientific Name: Elaeagnus pungens
Family: Elaeagnaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Shrub
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Thorny Olive (Elaeagnus pungens)
The Thorny Olive, scientifically known as Elaeagnus pungens, is a versatile plant with a number of common names.
Common Names:
- Thorny Olive
- Spiny Oleaster
- Silverthorn
- Thorny Elaeagnus
- Oleaster
- Silverberry
- Pungent Elaeagnus
- Spotted Elaeagnus
Considerations for Pets
- The plant is known as "Thorny Olive" due to its sharp shoots, giving it a thorny appearance.
Considerations for Children
- The plant is known as "Thorny Olive" due to its sharp shoots, giving it a thorny appearance.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Elaeagnus pungens Thunb.
- Family: Elaeagnaceae (Oleaster family)
- Synonyms: The text refers to related species in the Elaeagnus family, such as Autumn Olive (Elaeagnus umbellata) and Russian Olive, highlighting the close relationships within this group.
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to Japan and China.
- Introduced to the southeastern United States as an ornamental shrub.
- Now found throughout the southeastern U.S.
Ecological Role
- Considered an invasive species in the southeastern United States.
- Forms dense thickets in natural areas.
- Seeds are dispersed by animals, contributing to its spread.
- It's noted as being less invasive than other Elaeagnus species, but still poses a threat.
Morphological Characteristics
- Evergreen shrub or vine.
- Dense and often multi-stemmed.
- Grows to a height of 3 to 25 feet (approximately 1 to 8 meters).
- Can reach 15 feet (4.6 m) wide.
- Sharp shoots/thorny branches are present. Thorns can be up to 3 inches (8cm) long.
- Leaves are thick and coriaceous (leathery).
- Underside of leaves is silver with brown spots.
- Produces sweet-scented yellow-white flowers.
Quirky Facts
- The text emphatically states the plant has an incredible fragrance in the fall.
Further Information
- Dave's Garden is mentioned as a resource for garden tips and ideas.
- Plants of Hawaii is referenced for images and information.
- ResearchGate hosts a full-text publication about Elaeagnus pungens.
- USDA Forest Service provides images.