Elaeagnus

Family. Elaeagnaceae.

Origin. Subtropics of Asia.

Description. The genus consists of approximately 60 species of evergreen and deciduous trees or large multi-stemmed, branching shrubs. The leaves are narrow, lanceolate, green, up to 10 cm long, arranged alternately. In summer, small, fragrant, bright yellow, axillary flowers with 4 pointed triangular petals appear on the tops of the shoots. The pleasant aroma of flowers spreads over considerable distances. The fruits are often edible, sweet, yellow or red berries that contain 1 seed. Young shoots, leaves and even buds of elaeagnus are covered with gray scales.

Height. A large and fast growing shrub that reaches 6 m in height in nature. In indoor culture, the height of the elaeagnus must be adjusted by pruning.

Planting and care

Temperature

In spring and summer, normal room temperature is suitable for growing elaeagnus; in the winter months, a cool dormant period at a temperature of about 5 - 10 ° C is suitable. 

Lighting

Brightly lit location with shade on hot summer days. 

Care, pruning

An unpretentious plant that does not require careful care and is suitable for beginners. Trim stems that are too long or weak to give the bush a compact, neat shape.

Soil

Elaeagnus adapts well to most soil types with good drainage. Tolerates even soils poor in nutrients. 

Fertilizer

Feed twice a month, during the period of active growth, feed the oleaster with water-soluble fertilizers.

When it blooms 

The buds decorate the tree in summer, but in indoor growing conditions flowering is observed quite rarely.

Spraying 

Does not require spraying.

Watering

Young seedlings require regular watering, and adult specimens are quite drought-resistant. In autumn, reduce watering and dry the soil to half its depth.

Transplant 

In spring, transplant into a larger pot. For large tub plants, change the top layer of soil to fresh one every year. 

Reproduction 

For seeds sown in spring, the germination period is 2 - 4 weeks at a temperature of 21 - 24 ° C. Stem cuttings 20 - 30 cm long, and each cutting must have at least 2 internodes. Vaccinations.

Pests and diseases

Fungal spots, spider mites.