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Elaeagnus pungens
silverberry
China and Japan; naturalized SE United States (invasive some SE states)Learn more
Growing Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones
7 - 9These zones indicate the coldest temperatures this plant can typically survive.
What's my zone? →Frost Tolerancehardy
Overview
Elaeagnus pungens is an evergreen shrub reaching 8–12 feet (2.4–3.7 m) tall with a spread of 8–12 feet (2.4–3.7 m). Stems are often armed with stiff thorns 1/2–1 1/2 inches (1–4 cm) long; young stems are covered in rust-colored to silvery scales. Leaves are leathery, oval to oblong, 2–4 inches (5–10 cm) long with wavy margins; the upper surface is dark green with a slightly dull sheen, and the underside is densely covered in silvery-white scales giving a bright silver appearance — the two-toned effect is most visible when wind moves the foliage. The plant forms a broad spreading to arching mound, often with long arching shoots. In October through November, small tubular white flowers approximately 1/4 inch (6 mm) long appear in clusters of 3–7 in the leaf axils, largely hidden by foliage; they produce an intensely sweet, honey-like fragrance disproportionate to their size. Fruits are small, oval, initially silver-scaled, ripening to reddish-brown by spring; edible but not palatable. Growth is vigorous; plants reach mature dimensions in 5–8 years and may continue to expand. The species fixes atmospheric nitrogen through root-associated actinomycetes, improving poor soils over time.
Native Range
Native to China and Japan, found on hillsides, forest margins, and disturbed areas from sea level to moderate elevations. Widely naturalized in parts of the southeastern United States; considered invasive in some southeastern states. Not listed as invasive in the Pacific Northwest.Suggested Uses
Planted as a screen, windbreak, or barrier hedge where the thorns create an impenetrable barrier. Used on difficult coastal or urban sites where few other broadleaf evergreens perform reliably. The fall fragrance is an asset when planted near outdoor seating areas, provided the thorny habit is kept back from paths. Not suited to small spaces or areas requiring frequent access due to thorns.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height8' - 12'
Width/Spread8' - 12'
Reaches mature size in approximately 6 years
Colors
Flower Colors
Foliage Colors
Bloom Information
Flowers October through November in USDA zones 7–9. Small tubular white flowers approximately 1/4 inch (6 mm) long appear in clusters of 3–7 in leaf axils; largely hidden within the foliage. Fragrance is intensely sweet and honey-like, detectable 15–25 feet (4.5–7.5 m) from the plant on calm days — disproportionately strong for flowers of this size. Fruits follow in spring, ripening from silver-scaled to reddish-brown by April–May; not ornamentally significant.Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
White (inconspicuous, fragrant)Foliage Description
Dark green above with slightly dull sheen; densely silvery-scaled beneath — two-toned; wavy marginsGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 4-8 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
One of the most adaptable broadleaf evergreen shrubs for difficult sites. Grows in full sun to partial shade; full sun produces densest growth. Tolerates poor, sandy, clay, and coastal soils; the nitrogen-fixing root system improves soil fertility over time. Established plants tolerate extended drought (6–8 weeks) and coastal salt spray. Water weekly for the first growing season; minimal irrigation required once established. Minimal fertilization needed — avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which suppress the beneficial nitrogen-fixing symbiosis. Provides bird habitat and nesting cover. Thorns make it suitable as an impenetrable barrier hedge; handle with heavy gloves during pruning.Pruning
Tolerates heavy pruning. Shear or cut back in early spring before new growth, or after the fall flowering period ends. Can be reduced by one-third to one-half annually to maintain a formal hedge; if left unpruned, plants develop long arching shoots that may root at the tip. Remove any reverted all-green shoots immediately. Hard rejuvenation pruning to 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) is tolerated and promotes vigorous regrowth. Use heavy gloves — thorns are sharp.Pruning Schedule
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early springlate fall