Family
Elaeagnaceae
Botanical Name
Elaeagnus commutata
Plant Common Name
Silverberry
General Description
The uncommonly hardy American silverberry exists in the far northern reaches of America and Canada and can even be found in areas with permafrost. In colder regions it survives as a very short shrub and in the warmer parts of its range it can be sizable. All plants tend to sucker. Wild populations are most commonly found along oceansides, in upland prairies and areas with dry sandy or gravelly soils. They are shallow-rooted and commonly planted as fast-growing windbreaks in natural areas.
This shrubby, woody plant has interesting leaves that are coarse to the touch due to a covering of silvery scales. The leaves are elliptical and alternate on the sometimes thorny stems. Extremely fragrant, tiny, four-lobed, bell-shaped flowers of yellow appear in early to midsummer. They are followed by small, egg-shaped, whitish green berry-like fruits that are edible but mealy. Birds favor the fruits and spread their seed.
Elaeagnus are some of the most durable shrubs and tolerant of most soil conditions. American silverberry grows best in full to partial sun and will tolerate just about any poor soil as long as its well-drained. Those with a more neutral pH are preferred. Like most silverberries this species is very salt, wind and pest resistant. Large plants generally need plenty of room to grow and may require regular pruning to keep long branches in check. This is an ideal species for difficult areas and may be planted as an informal hedge, wind break or screen.
All Elaeagnus species fix atmospheric nitrogen into the soil, a quality which allows then to grow better in poorer soils.
Ornamental Features
-
Flower Interest
Insignificant
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Fragrant Flowers
Yes
-
Fragrant Fruit
Yes
-
Fragrant Foliage
No
-
Bark or Stem Fragrant
No
-
Repeat Bloomer
No
-
Showy Fruit
Yes
-
Edible Fruit
Yes
-
Showy Foliage
Yes
-
Evergreen
No
-
Showy Bark
Yes
