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: Goumi

General Information

Elaeagnus multiflora is a deciduous or semi-evergreen shrub or small tree usually growing 180 - 300cm tall, but occasionally reaching 600cm in the wild with a short bole up to 30cm in diameter[, ].
The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a food and a medicine. It is sometimes cultivated, especially in Japan, on a garden scale as a fruit crop, and is also grown as an ornamental in gardens, where it can be used as a hedge[, , ].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

, ,

Range

E. Asia - China and Japan

Habitat

Thickets and thin woods in hills and on lowland; at elevations from 600 - 1,800 metres[].

Properties

Edibility Rating
Medicinal Rating
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Deciduous Shrub
Height	2.00 m
Growth Rate	Medium
Pollinators	Bees
Cultivation Status	Cultivated, Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

Elaeagnus multiflora is able to withstand temperatures down to about -20°c without damage when dormant[]. The roots are even more hardy, surviving temperatures down to -30°c - although top growth will be killed at this temperature, the plant will usually resprout from the base.
An easily grown plant[], it succeeds in most soils that are well-drained[, ]. Prefers a soil that is only moderately fertile, succeeding in poor soils and in dry soils[, ]. Prefers a light sandy loam and a sunny position but succeeds in light shade[, ]. Very drought and wind resistant[, , ]. Tolerates atmospheric pollution[].
A very variable species[], there are several recognised subspecies[]. The plant is often cultivated for its edible fruit in Japan, there are some named varieties[, , ].
Plants can crop in 4 years from cuttings[]. They bear heavily in Britain[].
The fruit is well hidden in the shrub and is quite difficult to harvest without damaging the plant[].
The subspecies. Elaeagnus multiflora ovata. (Maxim.)Servett., produces brown fruits on long stalks[], would this be any easier to harvest?[].
This species is notably resistant to honey fungus[, ]. Birds love the fruits[].
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[].
The small flowers are deliciously scented with a lilac-like smell, their aroma pervading the garden on calm days[].

Edible Uses

Fruit - raw or cooked[, , , , , ]. Pleasantly acid when ripe, they make a very good dessert fruit[] though they are usually made into pies, preserves etc[]. Quite fiddly and difficult to pick without breaking the young shoots[]. The fruit must be fully ripe before it can be enjoyed raw, if even slightly under-ripe it will be quite astringent[]. The oblong to ovoid fruit is around 12 - 14mm 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 fruit is prescribed in the treatment of watery diarrhoea[].
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[].

The leaves are used in the treatment of coughs[].

The root is astringent, a decoction is used to treat itch and foul sores[].

Agroforestry Uses:

Plants can be grown as a hedge in exposed positions, tolerating maritime exposure. Reasonably fast growing and providing a good screen in the summer, though much more open in the winter. It is a good companion hedge to grow, the plants enriching the soil and improving the growth of neighbouring plants[]. A hedge in a very exposed position at Rosewarne in N. Cornwall was 3.5 metres tall in 1989[].
An excellent companion plant, when grown in orchards it can increase yields from the fruit trees by up to 10%.

Other Uses

The plant has often been used as a rootstock for evergreen species that are hard to grow from cuttings. It frequently sprouts from the base, however, and can out-compete the scion[, ].

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. Good percentage[].
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[].