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Elaeagnus pungens 'Maculata'
Golden Variegated Elaeagnus
Species native to China and Japan; cultivar is garden selectionLearn 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 'Maculata' is an evergreen shrub reaching 6–10 feet (1.8–3 m) tall with a spread of 6–10 feet (1.8–3 m). This cultivar of E. pungens is distinguished by leaves with an irregular bright golden-yellow to yellow-green central blotch or splash against a dark green background; the variegation pattern varies from leaf to leaf and ranges from small central spots to blotches covering most of the leaf surface. The leaf underside retains the characteristic dense silvery scaling of the species. Leaves are leathery, oval to oblong, 2–4 inches (5–10 cm) long with wavy margins. Stems bear stiff thorns and are covered with rust-colored to silvery scales on young growth. The plant forms a broad mounding to spreading habit, generally somewhat less vigorous than the plain green species. In October through November, small tubular white flowers approximately 1/4 inch (6 mm) long appear in leaf axils and produce an intensely sweet honey-like fragrance. All-green reverted shoots grow faster than the variegated portions and must be removed promptly to prevent them from dominating the plant. Growth rate is moderate to vigorous; plants reach mature dimensions in 5–8 years.
Native Range
The species Elaeagnus pungens is native to China and Japan. Maculata is a cultivar selected in cultivation and does not occur in the wild.Suggested Uses
Same site adaptability as E. pungens species, with the additional ornamental asset of year-round gold central variegation providing bright focal points. The gold blotch is most visible in full sun; in shade the variegation appears less vivid. Effective as a bold specimen shrub or in massed screening plantings. Not suited to small spaces, areas near paths (thorns), or full shade.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height6' - 10'
Width/Spread6' - 10'
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.Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
White (inconspicuous, fragrant)Foliage Description
Gold central blotch or splash on dark green; silvery-scaled underside; wavy margins — gold in center, not 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
Same cultural requirements as E. pungens species: tolerates poor soils, coastal exposure, drought, and urban conditions. Inspect the plant regularly for all-green reverted shoots, which are faster-growing and will dominate if not removed. Trace reverted shoots back to their point of origin and cut them off cleanly at the junction with variegated wood. In full shade, variegation intensity decreases; plant in partial to full sun for best gold color. Water weekly for the first growing season; minimal irrigation required once established.Pruning
Tolerates heavy pruning. Shear or cut back in early spring or after fall flowering. Additional priority: remove all-green reverted shoots immediately upon detection, tracing to their origin. Reversion shoots left for more than one season will alter the plant's appearance significantly. Use heavy gloves — thorns are sharp.Pruning Schedule
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F
M
A
M
J
J
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O
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early springlate fall