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autumn olive

Scientific Name: Elaeagnus umbellata var. parvifolia

Family: Elaeagnaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Autumn Olive (Elaeagnus umbellata)

The plant known as Autumn Olive, scientifically named Elaeagnus umbellata, goes by several common names, including Japanese silverberry, umbellata oleaster, autumn elaeagnus, and spreading oleaster. It's important to distinguish it from the Russian olive, which is a separate species.

Considerations for Pets

  • Elaeagnus umbellata is a shrub that can have thorny branches.

Considerations for Children

  • Elaeagnus umbellata is a shrub that can have thorny branches.
  • The berries are edible but grow on a plant with thorns.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Elaeagnus umbellata Thunb.
  • Family: Elaeagnaceae (Oleaster Family)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to East Asia, including the Himalayan region, Pakistan, and Afghanistan.
  • Introduced to the United States in the 1830s.
  • Now found widely throughout the Eastern US.

Ecological Role

  • Considered an invasive species in North America.
  • Rapid growth and prolific fruiting contribute to its invasive nature.
  • Widely dispersed by birds.
  • Can thrive in poor soil due to its nitrogen-fixing capabilities.
  • Competes with native plant species.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Deciduous shrub or small tree, ranging from 3 to 20 feet in height.
  • Alternate, elliptical leaves with a silver underside.
  • Thorny branches.
  • Produces abundant red (occasionally yellow) berries with silver flecks.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • The fruit is a food source for birds, which aids in seed dispersal.
  • Capable of fixing nitrogen, enhancing soil fertility.

Uses

  • Originally planted for erosion control and wildlife cover.
  • Berries are edible and high in lycopene.
  • Can be used to make fruit leather, juice, and wine.

Invasive Species Management

  • Roundup herbicide (glyphosate) can be effective when applied directly to the plant.

Further Information

  • USDA's National Invasive Species Information Center provides a species profile.