Elaeagnus argyi is closely related to Elaeagnus angustifolia and has been included in that species in some treatments. We are following the Flora of China[], which treats it as distinct[].
Many taxa in this genus are separated only by quantitative characters, and better information on population variation is likely to lead to a significant reduction in the number of species recognized. Indeed, recent studies (Du, Fl. Yunnan. 12: 749-776. 2006) suggest that some species of Elaeagnus should be combined[].

Common Name:

General Information

Elaeagnus argyi is an erect, deciduous to evergreen shrub, usually growing 200 - 300cm tall. The branches usually have spines[].
The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a food. It is sometimes cultivated, especially in China, for its edible fruit[].
We have no information on the potential of this species to become a weed outside its native range. It is, however, often quoted as a synonym of Elaeagnus angustifolia which is a declared noxious weed in parts of N. America. Care should then be taken if thinking about introducing this species to new areas[].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

Range

E. Asia - south and eastern China

Habitat

Forests; at elevations from 100 - 300 metres[]. Streamsides, roadsides, open slopes, and forests,
also cultivated; at elevations from 100 - 2,250 metres.

Properties

Weed Potential	Yes
Edibility Rating
Habit	Semi-deciduous Shrub
Height	2.00 m
Pollinators	Bees, Insects
Cultivation Status	Cultivated, Wild

Cultivation Details

Species in this genus generally succeed in most soils that are well-drained[]. They prefer a light sandy soil that is only moderately fertile, succeeding in poor and dry soils[, ]. They are often very drought and wind resistant[, ].
This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria, these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby[]. An excellent companion plant, when grown in orchards it can increase yields from the fruit trees by up to 10%.
Species in this genus are generally notably resistant to honey fungus[, ].

Edible Uses

Fruit - raw or cooked[]. The juicy, red fruit is around 13 - 15mm long and 6mm wide[].

Seed - raw or cooked. It can be eaten with the fruit though the seed case is rather fibrous[].

Medicinal

The fruit of many members of this genus is a very rich source of vitamins and minerals, especially in vitamins A, C and E, flavanoids and other bio-active compounds. It is also a fairly good source of essential fatty acids, which is fairly unusual for a fruit. It is being investigated as a food that is capable of reducing the incidence of cancer and also as a means of halting or reversing the growth of cancers[].

Other Uses

None known

Propagation

Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame[]. It should germinate in late winter or early spring, though it may take 18 months[]. Stored seed can be very slow to germinate, often taking more than 18 months. A warm stratification for 4 weeks followed by 12 weeks cold stratification can help[]. The seed usually (eventually) germinates quite well[]. Prick out the seedlings into individual pot as soon as they are large enough to handle and plant out when they are at least 15cm tall.
Cuttings of half-ripe wood, 7 - 10cm with a heel, mid summer in a frame. Difficult[].
Cuttings of mature wood of the current year's growth, 10 - 12cm with a heel, autumn in a frame[]. The cuttings are rather slow and difficult to root, leave them for 12 months[].
Layering in September/early autumn. Takes 12 months[].
Root cuttings in the winter[].