Elaeagnus

Elaeagnus × ebbingei

shrub

A fast-growing, evergreen shrub with silvery-green, narrow leaves and fragrant, small cream-coloured flowers in autumn followed by red berries. Extremely tough and adaptable, it tolerates poor soils, coastal salt spray, wind, and drought, making it ideal for hedging and screens in challenging locations. The heavily scented autumn flowers attract pollinators and birds.

Common Problems

Select the problem your Elaeagnus is experiencing to get a treatment guide.

warning

Overwateringchevron_right

warning

Underwateringchevron_right

warning

Slow Growthchevron_right

Care Guide

light_mode

Light

Full sun to partial shade (4+ hours daily). Best flowering and foliage color in full sun, but tolerates part shade.

water_drop

Water

Low water needs once established. Water regularly during first season; thereafter drought-tolerant. Minimal supplemental watering needed.

compost

Soil

Tolerates a wide range of soils from poor to fertile. Well-draining soil preferred. Salt and wind-tolerant; suits coastal gardens.

science

Fertiliser

Low requirements. Apply balanced fertilizer in spring if desired, but rarely necessary. Suits poor, infertile soils.

thermometer

Temperature

Hardy shrub. Tolerates cold winters (to zone 7) and moderate to warm summers. Salt and wind-hardy.

humidity_percentage

Humidity

Low to moderate humidity. Wind and salt-spray tolerant. No misting required. Drought-tolerant once established.

Toxicity

check_circleSafe for Catscheck_circleSafe for Dogscheck_circleSafe for Children

Non-toxic to cats, dogs, and children. Berries are technically edible but insubstantial and rarely eaten.

Common Diseases

coronavirusRoot Rotchevron_right

Common Pests

pest_controlAphidschevron_right pest_controlScalechevron_right

Seasonal Care

local_floristspring

Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.

light_modesummer

Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.

ecoautumn

Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.

ac_unitwinter

Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.