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 glabra is a much-branched, evergreen shrub, sometimes scrambling into the surrounding vegetation; it can grow up to 600cm tall[].
The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a food. It is cultivated for its edible fruits in the Caucasus[], and is also grown as an ornamental, where it can be used as a hedge.

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

, ,

Range

E. Asia - southern and eastern China, central and southern Japan.

Habitat

Thickets in hills; at elevations around 2,200 metres[, , ].

Properties

Edibility Rating
Medicinal Rating
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Evergreen Shrub
Height	4.00 m
Growth Rate	Medium
Pollinators	Bees
Cultivation Status	Cultivated, Wild

Cultivation Details

Elaeagnus glabra is not reliably hardy outside of the milder regions of the temperate zone[].
Succeeds in most soils that are well-drained[]. Prefers a soil that is only moderately fertile, succeeding in poor soils and dry soils[, ]. Requires a lime-free soil[]. A very shade tolerant plant, it can be grown under other trees and will eventually climb up into them[, ].
This species has some potential as a commercial crop in temperate areas. It does not always carry a good crop, and research needs to be carried out to find the reasons for it, but the fruit is of a reasonable size and, when fully ripe, of a reasonable flavour[]. It seems to be the latest to ripen in spring of the evergreen Elaeagnus[].
Closely related to E. Pungens, differing in its unarmed branches and thinner more glossy leaves[].
This species is notably resistant to honey fungus[, ].
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%.
The small flowers are deliciously scented, their aroma pervading the garden on calm days[].

Edible Uses

Fruit - raw or cooked[, ]. The fruit must be fully ripe before it can be enjoyed raw, if even slightly under-ripe it will be quite astringent[]. The orange-red, oval fruit is around 15mm long[] and contains a single large seed[].

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

Medicinal

The plant is used medicinally[]. (As Elaeagnus heterophyla.)

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[].

Agroforestry Uses:

Plants can be grown as a hedge in exposed positions, tolerating maritime exposure[, ]. They form a good wind-break, though they are somewhat slow to reach an effective size[]. They succeed when planted under trees that have become bare at the base, in time they will scramble up into the tree and fill out the bottom[].
An excellent companion plant, when grown in orchards it can increase yields from the fruit trees by up to 10%.

Other Uses

None known

Propagation

Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame[]. It should germinate freely within 4 weeks, 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. Good percentage[]. It is best to take the cuttings in early summer[].
Cuttings of mature wood of the current year's growth, 10 - 12cm with a heel, late autumn in a frame. Leave for 12 months. Fair to good percentage[].
Layering in September/early autumn. Takes 12 months[].