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Growing Info

Scarification: Soak in hot tap water, let stand in water for 6 hours

Stratification: cold stratify for 90 days

Germination: can be sown outdoors in the fall for spring germination, sow seed 3/4" deep, tamp the soil, keep moist, mulch the seed bed

Native to: China, Japan, Korea (South)

Introduced to: Southeastern US, United States

Native

Introduced

Elaeagnus pungensElaeagnus pungens

Thorny Elaeagnus, Thorny Olive

In Stock: 2.121 lb (Total:2.121lb)

Elaeagnus pungens

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2.12 lb AL

Details

Germination:

91%

Germination test:

Cut (Full Seed)

Purity:

99%

Seeds per lb:

3,078

Quantity:

2.12 lb

Collected in:

Alabama

Crop year:

2024

Min. hardiness zone:

Item ID:

1835527

Characteristics

Growing Info

Scarification: Soak in hot tap water, let stand in water for 6 hours

Stratification: cold stratify for 90 days

Germination: can be sown outdoors in the fall for spring germination, sow seed 3/4" deep, tamp the soil, keep moist, mulch the seed bed

Native to: China, Japan, Korea (South)

Introduced to: Southeastern US, United States

Native

Introduced

Elaeagnus pungens, commonly known as Thorny Elaeagnus or Thorny Olive, is a hardy, vine-like shrub hails from Asia and belongs to the oleaster family (Elaeagnaceae). Engineered by nature to thrive in challenging environments, it exhibits remarkable resistance to drought, salt spray, pollution, and even deer damage. Perfect for those seeking low-maintenance greenery, its sprawling shoots create a robust, unkempt charm that offers both visual interest and functionality.

Adorned with showy white fragrant blossoms, Thorny Olive transforms during fruiting season with vibrant red berries that beckon birds, adding lively, seasonal appeal to any landscape. Its young branchlets, covered in distinctive brown scales, and thorn-equipped stems provide a natural climbing mechanism, ideal for interesting trellised displays.

Capable of thriving in a variety of soil conditions, including poor and infertile soils, this shrub's high salt tolerance makes it suitable for coastal areas. Though shade-tolerant, expect sparser foliage in low light. Prune as desired, but remember that next year's blossoms will flourish on old growth.

A word of caution: listing on the Non-Native Invasive Plants of Southern Forests and the Invasive Plant Atlas of the MidSouth underscores its potential to form dense thickets, threatening to overshadow native species and disturb wildlife. Exercise responsible planting and manage its growth to enjoy this plant's unique allure without compromising natural ecosystems. Experience the blend of charm and vigor with Elaeagnus pungens, a testament to nature's tenacity and adaptability.